Approximately 17,500 students across 290 schools sat the numeracy and problem solving exam with no use of mathematical instruments permitted.

Mudgee Public School's Jessica Halbisch was the year 6 district award winner with Alice MacDonald the year 5 district award winner, and Grady Vitnell the third place winner in the year 6 division.

Jessica, who admits maths has "always been my favourite subject", said the exam offered her the chance to challenge her abilities, with receiving the award something quite special.

"I thought there were some questions that I went pretty smoothly in, while some of them were a little more challenging. Overall, I thought it was really fun and challenging, and really stretched my abilities," she said.

"I think it's pretty special for me because I didn't get to do it last year so the fact I got to do it this year and got an award is pretty cool."

Alice agreed that the exam wasn't all smooth sailing but said being the district award winner means she can do anything.

"I have never really been excellent at maths and it means that I can do it and gives me hope that I can do more with it," she said.

As for Grady, placing third for the year 6 division had him lost for words; "I can't express how it feels to receive this award."

Newcastle Permanent's Branch Lending Manager Mudgee Officer, Sam Watson, who presented the winners with their awards, acknowledged the students' achievements.

"I'm very proud to meet and congratulate the bright young people who have shown themselves to be passionate about maths and its everyday application. It's clear these students have an aptitude for maths and we'll no doubt see big things from them in the future," Watson said.

The Newcastle Permanent Primary School Mathematics Competition is the largest and longest running competition of its kind in Australia.

Over half a million year 5 and 6 students have participated since its inception 40 years ago, providing them with the opportunity to gain invaluable problem solving skills.