STEP Summer school provides academic growth and a powerful sense of belonging

This August, Murray Edwards College welcomed 50 budding and passionate young women and non-binary students to its free, four-day STEP Summer School. The programme aims to equip students with the mathematical understanding and confidence to take on the Sixth Term Examination Paper (STEP), a challenging paper which is required for students to be accepted to study undergraduate Mathematics at Cambridge.

STEP is a rigorous exam required by some of the UK’s most competitive Mathematics courses, including Cambridge. Its unique style and format mean that even the most talented A-Level students need dedicated preparation to succeed - something not often available in schools. The Murray Edwards STEP Summer School bridges this gap, offering tailored academic support and an empowering environment to kickstart students’ preparations for the paper.

The programme includes:

• STEP workshops in small groups focused on problem-solving strategies and building resilience when tackling difficult questions.
• Supervisions, mirroring Cambridge’s unique one-on-one teaching style, helping students develop full solutions and deep mathematical understanding.
• Lectures and enrichment talks to deepen mathematical curiosity.
• A Cambridge admissions talk, giving insight into the application process and life at the university.
• Social activities, including a quiz night and formal dinner providing space for friendship and fun.

This fully funded experience - including free meals and accommodation for all 50 Year 12 students - aims to support efforts to increase the number of young women and non-binary students studying Maths at Cambridge.

For many attendees, the academic growth is matched by a powerful sense of belonging. As one participant put it:

“Meeting other girls who like Maths was such a valuable experience for me! I feel a lot more motivated and excited to prepare for STEP now.”

Others echoed the value of learning in a supportive space:

“The summer school has genuinely made me happy - not only have I made wonderful friends, but I’ve also gained comfort in Cambridge and being a woman in STEM overall.”

“The most useful experience I’ve had to date in improving my problem-solving and confidence!”

Even the supervisors, Cambridge maths students themselves, were inspired:

“It’s been amazing to meet so many young women and non-binary people challenging themselves with tough problems,” said Chloe, one of the student supervisors.

Asiya added: “They’ve really started to see what university maths could be like — and it’s been wonderful watching those ‘aha!’ moments.”

Whether students come away with a stronger grasp of STEP, a clearer sense of university life, or a new group of friends who share their passion, the STEP Summer School clearly has a huge impact on those who attend.

If you’re interested in attending next year or want to find out more about other She Talks Science opportunities you can sign up to our newsletter here.