Math Challenge at Western
Program Overview
The Math Challenge is the flagship outreach program of the Department of Mathematics, centered around problem-solving skills. Initiated and led by local math teachers since the late 1990s, the program aims to cultivate a love for mathematics and enhance problem-solving skills among students of Grades 5-12. By engaging students in challenging mathematical problems and providing them with the necessary tools and strategies, the program fosters critical thinking and creativity. Over the years, the Math Challenge has successfully trained and prepared thousands of primary and secondary students for a variety of math contests.
Who can benefit from the program?
The program is for those who enjoy problem-solving in math. If you wish to extend your mathematical repertoire beyond the school curriculum and prepare for mathematics contests, this program is for you. The program will run from October 2025-April 2026 for students working at a grade 5 or up level.
Who are the program teachers?
The Math Challenge teachers are experienced local math educators who generously share their passion for mathematics, along with their time and expertise, with students. To enhance the program further, we have begun to expand our roster by including graduate students and younger teachers. These emerging educators bring new energy and current mathematical practices to the program, fostering a dynamic and engaging atmosphere. Together, our team of seasoned educators along with new talents is committed to helping students unlock their full potential and excel in their mathematical endeavors.
You can find more information about our teachers and staff on this page.
Some remarks:
- There are no books required for the program, but we can recommend books appropriate to augment the students’ studies.
- It is expected that students will work at home on the problems handed out and be prepared to discuss them in class.
- Please arrive at class ten minutes before the class is due to start so that we can start on time.
Program Schedule
In the academic year 2026-2027, Math Challenge will continue to run in-person sessions.
The program will begin in late September, pause in late December and throughout January, and resume in February. Specifically:
- Term 1: September 29–December 16, 2026
- Term 2: February 2–April 28, 2027
This year, the program is offered on four different levels: Grades 5/6, Grades 7/8, Grades 9/10 and Grades 11/12.
Grades 5/6
- Dates and time: Wednesdays, 5:30pm to 6:30pm
- Location: TBA
- Teachers: Anna Ng
Grades 7/8
- Dates and time: Wednesdays, 6:10pm to 7:10pm
- Location: TBA
- Teachers: TBA
Grades 9/10
- Dates and time: Tuesdays, 6:30pm to 8:00pm
- Location: TBA
- Teachers: Donna MacDonald, Hamed Hessam
Grades 11/12
- Dates and time: Tuesdays, 6:30pm to 8:00pm
- Location: TBA
- Teachers: Tom Griffiths, Peter O’Hara, and Allen O’Hara.
For information about the parking lots on campus please visit Western Parking Map page.
Registration
The registration fee for the entire program is $150 (plus taxes) per student. The fee is non-refundable. The registration fee will be used to cover program expenses, including supplies, administrative costs, staff and teacher hiring, as well as supporting initiatives to promote mathematics in the community.
We are committed to ensuring our program is accessible to everyone. Financial assistance is available for individuals in need through special discounted registration fees or waived fees. For more information, please contact the program coordinator.
Payment methods accepted are Visa, MasterCard, and Visa Debit.
To be informed of the registration for the future program and our other programs, please sign up for our outreach contact list here.
Volunteer Oppurtunities
Math Challenge is offering a Program Assistant Volunteer role for high school students. If you’re interested, please complete the application form below. Applications received by September, 2026 will receive full consideration; the search will continue until the position is filled.
Updated: May 26, 2026
