
At BIS HCMC, mathematical learning is a journey — one that begins in Early Years and develops into advanced problem-solving, independence and global opportunity in Secondary.
Following the success of our Primary students at the FOBISIA Maths Challenge, our Secondary mathematicians have continued this journey by competing in the World Mathematics Championships (WMC) Senior Regional Qualifier, hosted at BIS HCMC in March 2026.
The event brought together talented students from leading international schools across Vietnam, including British International School Hanoi, ISHCMC, Vinschool Central Park, ABCIS and Scotch AGS — creating a highly competitive and inspiring environment.
The World Mathematics Championships is not a traditional competition focused solely on speed or correct answers. Instead, it is a global platform designed to develop deeper thinking, collaboration and creativity through mathematics.
Across a full day of competition, students took part in multiple rounds combining:
Individual problem-solving and conceptual thinking
Team collaboration and communication
Strategic planning and real-time decision-making
Creative approaches to unfamiliar challenges

Participants are encouraged to think independently, collaborate effectively and apply their knowledge in real-world contexts — developing the skills needed for future academic and professional success.
As Assistant Head of Mathematics at BIS HCMC, Ben Sillitoe, reflected:
“The competition highlighted not only impressive mathematical ability, but also teamwork, resilience and a shared enthusiasm for tackling complex problems.”
The WMC focuses on a broad range of skill areas that extend beyond traditional mathematics, including:
Technical knowledge and conceptual understanding
Collaboration and communication
Strategic thinking and adaptability
Creativity and innovation
This approach reflects how mathematics is taught at BIS HCMC — where students are encouraged not only to succeed academically, but to think critically, work collaboratively and approach challenges with confidence.

Our Year 12 BIS students delivered exceptional performances across the competition, achieving medals in multiple categories.
15 out of 18 BIS students were awarded ‘Golden Tickets’, securing invitations to the WMC World Finals at Imperial College London
Aesop, Hugo, Ingrid and WonJun placed in the top six overall, an outstanding achievement
The WMC journey continues far beyond the regional qualifier.
Students who progress to the World Finals take part in a week-long residential programme at Imperial College London, where they:
Compete in advanced multi-round challenges
Collaborate with top students from around the world
Experience a leading university environment
Build lasting friendships and global connections

At BIS HCMC, this journey begins early.
One of our top-performing students, Ingrid, first joined BIS in Foundation Stage 1, and has progressed through the school to now compete at an international level in Secondary.
Her journey reflects the strength of a BIS education — where:
Curiosity is nurtured in Early Years
Strong foundations are built in Primary
Skills are deepened and challenged in Secondary

We are especially proud that one of our students, Aesop Song, will represent BIS HCMC at the World Mathematics Championships Finals in London.
As he prepares for this next stage, we look forward to sharing more of his journey — offering further insight into the opportunities available to BIS students as they progress through the school.

From Early Years through to Sixth Form, BIS students benefit from a carefully designed pathway that supports their development at every stage.
Early Years: building curiosity and confidence
Primary: developing strong academic foundations
Secondary: applying knowledge in complex, real-world contexts

We are incredibly proud of all our students who took part in the WMC Senior Regional Qualifier — not only for their achievements, but for the determination, teamwork and enthusiasm they demonstrated throughout.
Their success reflects the strength of our mathematics programme, the dedication of our teachers, and our commitment to providing exceptional opportunities for every student.