Seeing Students Develop a Love for Learning and Witnessing Their Confidence Grow Fuels My Passion to Continue Innovating and Improving Educational Experiences: Sophie Silver, CEO of Polymath

Polymath is an EdTech platform designed to make math engaging through interactive, game-based learning. By blending education with immersive gameplay, it enables children to build math skills in a way that feels natural and enjoyable. Adaptive algorithms adjust challenges to each learner’s ability, ensuring a personalized experience that keeps students motivated. Grounded in cognitive science and developmental psychology, Polymath encourages self-directed exploration, critical thinking, and problem-solving. With a focus on bridging the gap between traditional instruction and modern engagement, it aims to redefine how students approach math, making learning more intuitive and accessible.

In a recent interview with SME Business Review, Sophie Silver, co-founder and CEO of Polymath, shared how the platform is transforming math education by blending learning with interactive, game-based experiences that keep children engaged and motivated. Here’s what she had to say.

Interview Excerpts

Could you share the inspiration behind founding Polymath?

The idea for Polymath emerged during my time as a nanny in the UK. I observed children grappling with math concepts, often finding them abstract and unengaging. This experience highlighted a gap between traditional math instruction and meaningful engagement. Collaborating with my partner, Christian, we sought to bridge this gap by integrating educational content with the engaging elements of popular games. ​

How does Polymath differentiate itself from other educational platforms?

Polymath stands out by prioritizing the child's experience. Our platform offers a self-directed, integrated, and expansive learning environment. By incorporating adaptive algorithms, we tailor the learning journey to each child's progress, ensuring that challenges are appropriately matched to their skill level. This personalized approach keeps children engaged and motivated. ​

Could you elaborate on the role of gamification in Polymath's design?

Gamification is central to Polymath's design. We believe that learning should be as enjoyable as playing popular games. By embedding educational content within game-like scenarios, children learn math concepts organically. For instance, to complete a task within the game, a child might need to apply specific math skills, making learning both contextual and enjoyable. ​

How has your background in psychology influenced Polymath's development?

My studies in human learning, memory, and developmental psychology at University College London have deeply influenced Polymath's development. Understanding how children learn and what motivates them has been instrumental in designing a platform that is both educational and engaging. This foundation ensures that our methods are rooted in cognitive science, enhancing the effectiveness of our educational approach. ​

What challenges have you encountered in integrating education with gaming?

One significant challenge is balancing educational content with entertainment. It's crucial to ensure that the game remains engaging without compromising the quality of education. Additionally, changing perceptions—convincing parents and educators that games can be effective educational tools—has been an ongoing effort.​

How do you measure the effectiveness of Polymath in improving math skills?

We utilize a combination of in-game analytics and external assessments. By tracking a child's progress within the platform, we can monitor improvements in specific skill areas. Additionally, feedback from educators and parents provides qualitative data on how Polymath impacts a child's confidence and interest in math.​

Could you share any success stories from students using Polymath?

We have received numerous testimonials from parents and teachers noting significant improvements in students' math skills and attitudes toward learning. For example, a teacher in New Zealand reported that her students, who previously showed little interest in math, became more enthusiastic and participative after using Polymath.​

How has the recent $1 million pre-seed funding impacted Polymath's growth?

Securing this funding has been pivotal. It has enabled us to expand our team, enhance platform features, and extend our reach into new markets. We're now better positioned to refine our product and make it accessible to a broader audience. ​

What role did investors like Blackbird Ventures and GD1 play in your journey?

Both Blackbird Ventures and GD1 have been more than just investors; they have been partners in our mission. Their belief in our vision and their support have provided us with resources and mentorship, accelerating our growth and helping us navigate the challenges of scaling an edtech startup. ​

How do you ensure that Polymath remains relevant in the rapidly changing edtech landscape?

Staying attuned to the needs of our users is paramount. We actively seek feedback from children, educators, and parents to inform our updates. Additionally, we keep abreast of technological advancements and educational research to integrate best practices and innovative features into Polymath.​

What are your thoughts on the current state of math education globally?

Globally, math education faces challenges, including declining proficiency rates and a lack of student engagement. Traditional methods often fail to connect with students, leading to disinterest. There's a pressing need for approaches that make math relevant and exciting, which is what we aim to achieve with Polymath.​

How does Polymath address diverse learning styles among children?

Our adaptive algorithms personalize the learning experience, catering to individual strengths and weaknesses. By offering various problem-solving methods and interactive scenarios, we accommodate different learning styles, ensuring that each child can engage with the material in a way that suits them best.​

What feedback have you received from educators regarding Polymath's integration into classrooms?

Educators have expressed appreciation for Polymath's ability to engage students and reinforce math concepts. Many have noted increased participation and enthusiasm in math lessons, attributing this positive change to the interactive and enjoyable nature of our platform.​

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs in the edtech sector?

Focus on understanding the needs of your end-users—students, educators, and parents. Ground your solutions in solid educational research, and be prepared to iterate based on feedback. Building partnerships within the education community can also provide valuable insights and support.​

How do you balance the demands of leading a startup with personal life?

Balancing startup leadership with personal life is challenging. I prioritize time management and ensure I allocate moments for rest and personal interests. Having a supportive team and co-founder helps distribute responsibilities, making the journey more manageable.​

What motivates you to continue innovating in the education space?

The potential to make a meaningful impact on children's lives drives me. Seeing students develop a love for learning and witnessing their confidence grow fuels my passion to continue innovating and improving educational experiences.

What direction do you see Polymath taking over the next five years?

We aim to expand beyond math, incorporating other subjects to provide a comprehensive educational platform. Additionally, we're exploring features that promote collaboration among students and integrating more advanced technologies to further personalize learning experiences.​

Sophie Silver, Co-Founder & CEO, Polymath

Gamification is central to Polymath's design. We believe that learning should be as enjoyable as playing popular games.