The Tom Rocks Maths Essay Competition is back for 2025 – once again supported by the Oxford University Department of Continuing Education. Full details and entry form here.

This exciting competition asks mathematicians of all ages and abilities to explain their favourite mathematical topic in an essay aimed at a non-specialist audience. Originally launched in 2020 as a partnership between Tom Rocks Maths and St Edmund Hall, the competition aims to provide the participants with the opportunity to communicate complex ideas in an understandable manner, and to encourage them to engage with maths beyond any curriculum. There are no eligibility requirements, all you need is a passion for maths and a flair for writing to participate!

The closing date is 11:59pm Monday 7th April 2025 and the showcase of entries (including the announcement of the winners) will take place throughout summer 2025.

There are two strands of entry: 1. Under 18’s (student); and 2. Over 18’s (adult) Please note: A ‘student’ is defined as anyone who is still studying full-time at school or college, university students fall into the ‘adult’’ category.

There is no word limit for the essays, but as a guideline 1000-2000 words is sufficient. All entries must be submitted using the online form as PDF or Microsoft Word documents. The submission form can be accessed here.

The winners will be selected by Dr Tom Crawford, Public Engagement Lead and Departmental Lecturer, and the creator of the award-winning ’Tom Rocks Maths’. All entries will be published on the Tom Rocks Maths website as part of the essay showcase.

The student prizewinner will receive a cash prize of £100 alongside the publication of their winning essay on the University website. The adult prizewinner will receive free registration to an online live-time weekly class (WOW) of their choosing and the publication of their winning essay on the University website. The full list of courses available can be found here.

All information about the competition can be found here.