Three renowned darts players, Paul Nicholson, Devon Petersen, and three-time world champion Michael Van Gerwen, recently visited the North East Surrey College of Technology (Nescot) in Epsom. Their mission was to inspire students and demonstrate how darts can enhance mathematical skills.

Darts Match and Math Quiz

Nicholson and Petersen engaged in a thrilling five-leg darts match, captivating the students with their skill and precision. Following the match, the players hosted a Q&A session and participated in a darts-related math quiz, showing the students how the sport integrates with numeracy.

Honoring the Players

All three players were awarded honorary fellowships for their contributions to education and sports. Michael Van Gerwen expressed his excitement, stating, "It's great to see first-hand how Nescot are using darts to inspire their students." Devon Petersen also noted, "It's so good to see students following core values and using darts to enhance their arithmetic."

New Math Department

During their visit, the players formally opened a newly-branded department of mathematics, where each classroom now features a darts board and is named after a darts legend. This initiative aims to make math learning more engaging and interactive.

Principal's Perspective

Julie Kapsalis, Principal and Chief Executive at Nescot, shared her enthusiasm: "Exciting and engaging students retaking their maths GCSEs was the challenge that made this day take shape." She added, "We regularly invite leaders from business, sport, and the community to share their stories, and when looking for a maths enthusiast, my mind turned to my own sporting passion – darts."