HSTM 2025: Infinite Possibilities
Participating Schools
Avenues Shenzhen
Canadian International School of Hong Kong
Dehong Beijing International Chinese School
Dehong Shanghai International Chinses School
Dulwich College Beijing
Dulwich College Seoul
Dulwich College Shanghai, Pudong
Dulwich College Shanghai, Puxi
Dulwich International High School Programme Suzhou
Guangzhou U-Link International School
Hangzhou Foreign Languages School
Hong Kong Academy
Léman International School Chengdu
Shanghai Community International Schools, Pudong
Shen Wai International School (SWIS)
Wellington College International Tianjin
Wuxi Dipont School of Arts & Science
HSTM at 12 Years
HSTM (High School Team Maths) is an international mathematics competition hosted by our school. The event is designed to develop students’ teamwork, problem-solving, communication and mathematical thinking skills. This year’s contest featured six meticulously crafted segments – the Mathematician, Shuttle, Duel, Crypto, Lightning and Codebreaking – each presenting novel and demanding problems for the contestants. Mr Christopher Krnic, our Head of the Mathematics, explained, “This year’s competition offers students even greater opportunities for collaboration. Unlike online contests such as the AMC or UKMT, this event places a premium on interaction, cooperation and exploration.”
In the process of intense competition, teams not only gained valuable experience but also benefited immensely from cross-cultural exchanges.
‘Golden Ticket’ in Hand, WMC Awaits
A particular highlight of this year’s HSTM was our collaboration with the World Mathematics Championships (WMC). Mr Krnic added, “Our partnership with WMC injects a fresh international dimension into our competition. The winning teams will receive a ‘golden ticket’ granting direct entry to the WMC finals, offering them the invaluable opportunity to compete with the world’s finest mathematics enthusiasts at Imperial College London.” This collaboration not only enhances the prestige of the event but also serves as a tremendous motivational boost for our students.
Maths Trail at Tiger Hill
In a nod to Suzhou’s rich cultural heritage, this year’s “Maths Trail” led participants to Tiger Hill – a landmark steeped in over 2,500 years of history. As Mr Krnic said, “Tiger Hill is not only a symbol of Suzhou’s culture but also an ideal setting for students to experience the allure of mathematics amid ancient monuments. Here, contestants gathered around natural stone formations to explore the mathematical relationships between stone areas and occupancy, and beneath the leaning tower, they observed its angle to construct a mathematical model.” This innovative activity seamlessly blended mathematics with Suzhou’s illustrious history, offering a refreshing and immersive learning experience.
Mathematics: The Language of the Universe
We firmly believe that HSTM is not only a platform for showcasing student talent but also an important forum for the exchange of educational philosophies. Principal Jon Fei remarked, “We attach great importance to this competition, which has evolved continuously over 12 years. Today’s HSTM transcends mere written tests by incorporating field visits and teacher training, thereby enhancing students’ understanding and application of mathematics comprehensively.”
This year, we were honoured to host Dr Andrew Blair from King’s College London, who led professional learning on ‘Inquiry Maths’. He emphasised that, by encouraging students to ask open-ended questions and engage in self-directed exploration, they become active participants in their learning journey. He explained:“In traditional maths lessons, the teacher poses the questions; however, inquiry-based learning allows students to question, observe and express curiosity, thereby taking charge of their own learning. This method, though unconventional compared to standard teaching practices, is centred on the process of learning itself, enabling students to set the direction of their inquiry and enhance their mathematical skills.”
“Whether in teaching or in competition, we must guide our students to discover the true essence of mathematics: its intimate connection to everyday life, permeating every aspect of our existence.”
#From the Students
The students’ reflections on the event revealed a spectrum of experiences and personal growth. For many first-time participants, the mix of nervousness and excitement was unmistakable:“This was my first time taking part in HSTM. I felt both nervous and excited, especially after watching the lecture recorded by the University of Cambridge professor – it was truly eye-opening,” shared a Year 12 contestant from Shanghai.
Another student observed: “During Round 1, our team divided responsibilities efficiently and worked in unison. This collaboration not only improved our performance but also made me realise that learning mathematics is never a solitary endeavour.”
After two days of fierce competition, the final results were announced, with numerous awards presented. Notably, three students from Dulwich College Seoul clinched the overall championship, exemplifying exceptional teamwork and mathematical acumen.
Mr Edgar Zillmann, EiM Head of Events and Educational Partnerships, stated, “It is heartening to see so many students from schools within the EiM network immersing themselves in the challenges and delights of mathematics over these two days. They forged friendships, expanded their horizons, and pushed themselves to new heights. As one of our ‘Worldwise Events’, HSTM provides a platform for young minds around the world to embark on a journey of wisdom, break boundaries and exceed their own expectations.”
