University of Birmingham
University of Birmingham
Uncover the cool maths behind winning games and learn how to outsmart your opponents using a large Noughts and Crosses board. at University of Birmingham

Masterclass Maths: Playing Games: winning, drawing and stealing non-existing things

University event offered by University of Birmingham

Visit website
Search

Short Session

Uncover the cool maths behind winning games and learn how to outsmart your opponents using a large Noughts and Crosses board.
Available dates
18th March 2026
show all dates
Suitable for
Events for School and College Groups (Ages 14-16)

Booking Deadline:

16 March 2026

Full event details

In a game of Noughts and Crosses (or Tic-Tac-Toe), you can always avoid losing. What happens if we make the board bigger, i.e. from 3 by 3 to 5 by 5 or even 10 by 10? In this masterclass, you will learn how mathematicians are analysing these games. Through playing a few simple games, you'll learn key concepts in combinatorial game theory and create winning strategies.

This event is part of our Masterclass series and is open to Year 11 students.

Students do not need to be studying any particular subject to take part as this session is beginner friendly.

There is also the option of adding on a campus tour.

Please book onto this masterclass using the visit website link below.

Visit website

Enquire about this event

Available dates
18th March 2026
show all dates
Suitable for
Events for School and College Groups (Ages 14-16)
University of Birmingham

Find out more about University of Birmingham