Core Maths (AQA)
Students who are not taking A-Level maths often struggle as they are surprised by the amount of mathematical knowledge that they need in their other A-Level subjects; this is not just the Sciences, which are very heavily Maths based, but also a number of Humanities and Social Science subject.
To support students, we offer Level 3 core maths (This is 40% of an A-Level and will account for 20 UCAS points; improving opportunities on students’ University applications).
Core maths concentrates on skills and techniques used in other A-Level subjects. Lessons are prepared by liaising with other departments so as to use examples from other A-Level subjects.
We time our lessons so that students meet mathematical concepts before they meet them in their other subjects.
Core maths is especially useful for students taking science or social science A-Levels. However, due to its focus on real world applications of mathematics, it is beneficial to all students regardless of their choice of subjects.
The course runs over two years with examinations at the end of Year 13. The content is based around the higher GCSE with about 20% taken from other qualifications (like A-Level maths). The course has some core topics taken by all students such as an introduction to using spreadsheets and maths for finance (how to manage loans, the best investments for savings taxation and National Insurance), which are key to survival in the real world.
Depending on your other A-Level choices, you will follow one of the following options: “Statistical Techniques” or “Graphical Methods”.
Graphical Methods is very useful for the Sciences and Economics whereas Statistical Techniques would be best for the Social Sciences (both options are useful for Biology).
Core Maths is a practical subject to support your further education and is taught in a very practical way.
If a student does not achieve a level 7 in their Mathematics GCSE and wishes to choose a science, then they will be required to study Core Maths.