Students working together on an applied mathematics problem at a whiteboard

Dublin 15 · From September 2026

Where Young Mathematicians are Challenged, Inspired and Encouraged to Thrive

A specialist mathematics academy for talented and mathematically curious primary and secondary school students in Dublin.

  • Wednesdays, 10 weeks
  • Castleknock Community College
  • 3rd Class to Transition Year

The problem

Is Your Child Ready for More?

Many mathematically talented students are being held back from reaching their true potential as they spend years waiting for their classmates to catch up.

Although they consistently achieve top marks, they are rarely challenged to think deeply, solve unfamiliar problems or explore the beauty of mathematics beyond the school curriculum.

Over time this can lead to boredom, disengagement and the false impression that mathematics is simply about completing routine exercises.

The O’Brien Maths Academy exists to provide these students with the challenge, inspiration and community they deserve — to develop their potential instead of limiting it.

Our mission

To identify, challenge and inspire mathematically talented young people

The O’Brien Academy of Accelerated Mathematical Advancement exists to identify, challenge and inspire mathematically talented young people.

Through accelerated learning, rich problem solving, mathematical competitions and a supportive community, we nurture young mathematicians and help them realise their full potential.

What we stand for

Our Four Pillars

  • Challenge

    Students deserve mathematics that stretches their thinking.

  • Curiosity

    Mathematics should be explored, questioned and enjoyed — not simply memorised.

  • Community

    Students learn alongside other young people who share their enthusiasm for mathematics.

  • Confidence

    Students develop the resilience and confidence to tackle unfamiliar problems and embrace mathematical challenge.

Why families choose us

Why Choose the Academy?

  • Small class sizes
  • Accelerated learning
  • Rich mathematical problem solving
  • Weekly enrichment classes
  • Competition preparation
  • Friendly community
  • Experienced mathematics teacher
  • Early introduction to Applied Mathematics
  • Encouragement for every talented young mathematician
  • A place for young mathematicians to belong

Timing matters

Why Start Early?

Beginning advanced mathematical study during primary school allows students to develop deep conceptual understanding years before they encounter these ideas in mainstream education.

By Senior Cycle they are confident, creative mathematical thinkers rather than students learning advanced concepts for the first time.

The strongest mathematicians don’t become exceptional by repeating material they already know. They become exceptional by being challenged.

Who it’s for

Who is the Academy For?

The Academy is designed for students who…

  • love mathematics
  • finish work quickly in school
  • enjoy puzzles and logical thinking
  • seek greater challenge
  • want to meet like-minded students

The O’Brien Maths Academy was founded to meet the needs of a group of students who are often overlooked: mathematically talented young people who need greater challenge than the mainstream curriculum can provide.

Not remedial tuition or exam preparation. Instead, we provide enrichment, acceleration and a community in which talented students can develop their mathematical thinking alongside like-minded peers.

Beyond the classroom

Maths Competitions

The O’Brien Maths Academy allows students to prepare for, access and compete in a range of local, national and international competitions which they may not be able to access through their mainstream schools.

  • Think creatively Problems that reward invention, not recall.
  • Become resilient Learning to keep going when an answer isn’t obvious.
  • Enjoy mathematics The fun of a hard problem finally giving way.
  • Challenge themselves Measuring their thinking against peers nationwide.
A hall full of students working through problems at a mathematics competition
Competitors at work during a mathematics competition.

Competitions students may prepare for

Participation depends on age group and readiness. Each name links to that competition’s own website.

Medals and engraved awards presented at Irish mathematics competitions
Awards presented at Irish mathematics competitions.

Autumn term 2026

Weekly Classes, Wednesdays

A 10-week course running from 30 September to 16 December 2026 at Castleknock Community College.

Class dates: 30/9, 7/10, 14/10, 21/10, 4/11, 11/11, 18/11, 2/12, 9/12, 16/12. No class on 28/10 (midterm) or 25/11 (school exams).

Does this sound like your child?

Places are limited and classes are kept small. Register your interest and we will be in touch with details for the autumn term.