7-Year-Old Indian-Origin Boy in UK Scores Grade 8 in GCSE Maths

A seven-year-old Indian-origin boy in the UK has achieved a Grade 8 in GCSE Maths, a qualification typically taken by 16-year-olds. Jivyan Reddy Dhruva, from West London, scored 196 out of 240 across three papers in the Pearson Edexcel GCSE Higher Mathematics exam, which he took in May. His results were released on GCSE Results Day last week.

Jivyan, who was homeschooled from February after finding regular school "too boring," said he was initially a little disappointed not to get a Grade 9 but was happy with his Grade 8. He told PTI that he enjoys maths because he likes solving difficult problems and finding different ways to get answers.

His father, Dhruva Katta, an AI engineer, said Jivyan showed an early grasp of numbers and mathematical concepts even before nursery. The family, originally from Andhra Pradesh, moved to South Ruislip in west London nearly five years ago. They decided to homeschool Jivyan so he could learn at a pace suited to his abilities.

Katta said they use AI as a learning tool and have created custom games and apps to make learning interactive. He emphasised that Jivyan is still a normal seven-year-old who loves chess, football, and dance. The family ensures he interacts with peers through clubs and hobbies.

Jivyan is now preparing for A-level Maths and Further Maths. He aspires to invent robots and other helpful things when he grows up. His father said they are proud of his achievement but more interested in his curiosity and ensuring he has a normal childhood.