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Mathematics and Further Mathematics
Our mathematics AS and A level course is suitable for
students who have achieved at least a grade A in GCSE
mathematics. Mathematics is a course worth studying not
only as a supporting subject for the physical and social
sciences, but in its own right. It is challenging but
interesting. It builds on work you will have met at GCSE,
but also involves new ideas produced by some of the
greatest minds of the last millennium. The course will
develop your ability to solve problems by using
mathematical arguments and logic. You will simplify real
life situations so that you can use mathematics to show
what is happening and what might happen in different
circumstances. You will also be taught to use further
calculator technology and other resources (such as
formulae booklets or statistical tables) effectively and
appropriately.
Further pure mathematics AS level is offered to those
students who achieve a grade A in AS/A2 mathematics.
It is taught as a separate subject, to students in year 13.
Further mathematics will lead to a second and more
challenging qualification. The course will continue to
build upon your pure mathematical knowledge beyond
the scope of the standard advanced level course.
You will study such topics as matrices, complex numbers
and investigate further coordinate systems, in addition to
extending your introductory skills in calculus.
Mathematics is rather different from other subjects.
An essential part of mathematical study is the challenge
of analysing and solving a problem and the satisfaction
and confidence gained from achieving a `correct' answer.
If you choose mathematics you will not have to write
essays, but you will need to communicate well in written
work to explain your solutions.
An A level in mathematics is very valuable as a
supporting subject to many courses at advanced level and
degree level, especially in the sciences. Advanced level
mathematics is a much sought after qualification for entry
to a wide variety of full time courses in higher education.
There are also many areas of employment that see a
mathematics A level as an important qualification and it
is often a requirement for the vocational qualifications
related to these areas. Higher education courses or
careers that either require A level mathematics or desire
it include economics, medicine, architecture, engineering,
accountancy, teaching, psychology, physics, computing
and ICT. Further mathematics is worth considering,
especially for those looking to enter the fields of science
or engineering or even mathematics.
Assessment
AS Mathematics
Core 1* (Non Calculator)
Core 2
Statistics 1*
A2 Mathematics
Core 3*
Core 4
Decision 1*
For AS Further Mathematics
Further Pure 1*
Further Pure 2
Further Pure 3
(* denotes January examined units.)

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