A Level Maths

If you have a talent for maths and enjoy solving challenging problems, this could be the course for you. It's a subject where you'll gain some great transferable skills such as problem solving, logic and analysing situations, which are useful for many university courses and careers.

To study 3 A Levels you'll need at least 5 GCSE's at grades 9-4 (A*-C) including GCSE English at Grade 4 (C) or above and Maths at grade 6 (B) or above. To study 4 A Levels you'll need at least 6 GCSE's at grades 9-6 (A*-C) including GCSE English and Maths at grade 4 (C) or above. If you have a grade 5 on a higher paper then you may be able to study A Level Maths following the successful completion of an assessment at enrolment.

The course is focussed around developing key pure mathematical skills, including algebraic manipulation, trigonometric relationships, integration, differentiation, and an understanding of vectors. Along with this pure mathematics, you will also take on two sections focused on applied mathematics, statistics and mechanics. In the statistics modules you will gain an understanding of working with data, probability, and hypothesis testing; while in the mechanics topics, you will be introduced to the key concepts of kinematics and forces. The course will then build on your understanding. Primarily, expanding your scope in utilizing trigonometry, integration and differentiation along with introducing new topics, such as sequences and series and parametric equations.

You will need a scientific calculator. An ideal spec model is Casio fx-991ex Classwiz or Graphing Calculator

Formal assessment is completed at the end of the course through three two hour long papers. Paper 1: Pure Mathematics 100 marks. Paper 2: Pure Mathematics 50 Marks and Statistics 50 Marks. Paper 3: Pure Mathematics 50 Marks and Mechanics 50 Marks. Each exam is equally weighted leading to the awarding of an A-Level in Mathematics on achieving a passing mark.

You could progress to a related higher education course such as maths, business, accountancy, science, computing, engineering or economics. Maths is essential to everyday life and a relevant to a huge range of scientific, technological and engineering careers.