Ahead of Night 16 of the Premier League Darts, Gian van Veen took time out of his busy schedule to visit Watercliffe Meadow Community Primary School in Sheffield for a special session of Bullseye Maths on National Numeracy Day. The Dutchman, who will be in action for one final time in his debut Premier League campaign, discussed his own experiences with maths as part of charity National Numeracy's 'Big Number Natter' before leading two sessions of the PDC's Bullseye Maths numeracy scheme with Year 5 students.
Teachers at the school were glowing with praise for the day's activities. Dave Tompkinson, Year 5 teacher from Watercliffe Meadow, said: "The Bullseye Maths event really opened my eyes to the value of darts in primary schools and the brilliant influence it can have on mathematical developments. It was amazing to see children who really lack confidence in maths shine as the darts gave numbers a purpose. A 10/10 and a big 180 for us!"
Tim Schwarz, Head of Brand and Marketing from Vanquis, said: "As proud partners of the PDC, we're delighted to support Bullseye Maths and bring learning to life in such an engaging way. Collaborating with National Numeracy Day helps us champion confidence with numbers, showing young people that maths can be both accessible and fun, whether in the classroom or through the world of darts." Sam Sims, CEO of independent charity National Numeracy, added: "Today is all about helping children and families build confidence with numbers and recognise that maths is everywhere. Bullseye Maths sessions like this are a brilliant way to bring that message to life, showing students how numeracy connects to the sports and activities they already enjoy."
The JDC's Education Team oversaw the session, part of hundreds of school visits across England and Wales. JDC Director of Education Gary Horsley expanded: "Maths and darts just go together and today's session really developed the students' maths skills using darts as a fun example. It was wonderful to again be able to support National Numeracy Day and it was great to see how everyone at Watercliffe Meadow involved themselves in the sessions and showed such enthusiasm for Bullseye Maths."
For van Veen, his Premier League Darts campaign comes to an end after it was confirmed last week he was unable to qualify for Finals Night. Along with Josh Rock, the Dutchman has not won a night and will be desperate to end the Premier League on a positive note. He will take on Gerwyn Price in the quarter-final stage in Sheffield.
