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Maths and Further Maths

Mathematics at A Level develops logical thinking, problem-solving skills and intellectual resilience. It equips students with the ability to analyse complex information and approach unfamiliar problems with confidence. Highly regarded by universities and employers alike, A Level Mathematics opens doors to a wide range of future pathways, including science, engineering, economics, medicine and data-driven careers, while providing skills that remain valuable well beyond formal education.

The Course

For both A Level Mathematics and A Level Further Mathematics, we follow the Pearson Edexcel specification. Students studying AS Level and A Level mathematics will have 6 lessons a week and students studying Further Maths A Level will have an additional 6 lessons per week. Students will be required to purchase the scientific calculator (Casio fx991CW+) and textbooks required for the course.  These will be available to purchase through the school at the start of Year 12.

Entry Requirements

  • A Level Mathematics - Grade 7 or above

  • A Level Further Mathematics - Grade 8 or above

  • AS Level Mathematics - Grade 7 or above (this course will only run if there is enough demand)

  • Mathematics in Context (Level 3 Core Maths) - Grade 5 or above from higher tier maths
    (this course will only run if there is enough demand).

A Level Mathematics 

Across the two-year course, students build on the knowledge and skills developed at GCSE and are introduced to a range of new mathematical concepts.

The A Level course will explore the following 3 themes:

  • Pure Mathematics forms the foundation of the course, developing essential methods and techniques such as proof, algebra, trigonometry, calculus and vectors.

  • Statistics focuses on analysing data, drawing conclusions and understanding the probability of events.

  • Mechanics involves modelling real-world situations, studying the motion of objects and the forces acting upon them, and is particularly valuable for students considering careers in physics, engineering and related fields.

At the end of the 2 year course, students will sit three 2-hour papers:

  • Paper 1: Pure Maths (100 marks)

  • Paper 2: Pure Maths (100 marks)

  • Paper 3: Statistics & Mechanics (100 marks)

Pre-course preparation for A Level Maths:

Over the summer between Year 11 and Year 12, please work through the transition material on the AMSP website:

https://amsp.org.uk/teachers/11-16-maths/transition-to-level-3-maths/essential-skills/ 

This consists of six resources, each taking about 3 hours to complete. They will help your depth of understanding of some of the essential skills required to be successful at A Level Maths. 

A Level Further Mathematics

Further Mathematics will build on learning from the A Level course and cover the following:

  • Core Pure Maths 

  • Two Further Mathematics Options - these will be chosen by the school. 

The Further Mathematics A Level is designed to stretch and challenge highly motivated students, providing excellent preparation for university courses in mathematics and other quantitative or scientific disciplines. 

At the end of the 2 year A Level Further Maths course, students will sit four 90 minute FM papers (in addition to the three A Level papers):

  • Paper 1: Core Pure Maths (75 marks)

  • Paper 2: Core Pure Maths (75 marks)

  • Paper 3: Further Mathematics Option 1 (75 marks)

  • Paper 4: Further Mathematics Option 2 (75 marks)

Students studying Further Mathematics will be taught all of A Level Maths in Year 12 and all of Further Maths in Year 13. All exams will be at the end of Year 13. 

Mathematics in Context (Core Maths)

This is an exciting course aimed at Sixth Form students who are keen to extend their maths skills beyond GCSE for future study or work, but have decided not to study A Level Maths. It is a Level 3 qualification which means it carries the same UCAS points as an AS Level. It is designed for students who have achieved a grade 5 or above at GCSE (higher tier). You will learn maths through meaningful real-life problems and contexts. 

The four main content areas are:

1. Application of statistics
2. Probability
3. Linear Programming
4. Sequences and growth

The qualification is examined by two exams at the end of Year 13 (no coursework)
Paper 1 – comprehension (understanding data from a pre-released source booklet)
Paper 2 – applications (applying problem-solving skills)

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