
Name: Peter Dunscombe
Position: Director of Studies & Director of Higher Education
Subject: Mathematics
Which university did you attend? Sheffield
Which subject did you read? Geography and Mathematics
When did you join the RGS? 2003
What aspect of the RGS ethos are you most proud of?
The focus in on each student achieving their own potential. We have a policy of ‘Scholarship for All’ which encourages each student to be the very best that they can be. I am proud of the open relationship that exists between staff and students that is based on a mutual respect.
What makes mathematics such an important subject in the 21st century?
The principles of Mathematics underpin so much of life in the 21st century. Everyone uses Mathematics everyday whether this be in their daily life or transactions for all of us or, for many, in our place of work.
What is the most intriguing or challenging concept you teach in your subject?
For me the teaching of a complex algebraic proof or producing an elegant solution to a challenging problem has an innate beauty and provides a sense of personal satisfaction that I hope is shared by the students
Why do students enjoy studying Mathematics?
RGS students love the intellectual challenge and rigour that comes from solving a challenging, complex problem.
Please outline your role as the Director of Education?
My principal roles in the School are as Director of Studies and Director of Higher Education. I have worked for the last 15 years with RGS students in preparing them for applications to university and I am immensely proud of the record that we have in helping students secure places at the top UK institutions which include over 350 offers to Oxford and Cambridge in the last 10 years. We also send large numbers to Durham, Imperial, UCL, Exeter, Bath, Warwick and Nottingham. In addition, we have a proven record in placing those who wish to apply to US universities at top Ivy League institutions including Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Stanford and MIT.
The success of the RGS is based on providing bespoke individual support to each student.