Core Mathematics

Please apply via PS16. Any applications received by 31/1/25 are guaranteed an interview in February - April 2025, as long as minimum entry requirements are met. Offers are made after interview.

Maths is for everyone. It is diverse, engaging and essential in equipping students with the right skills to reach their future destination, whatever that may be. This Level 3 Certificate Mathematical Studies qualification will consolidate students' mathematical understanding, build their confidence and competence in applying mathematical techniques to solve a range of problems and introduce them to new techniques and concepts that will prepare them for further study and future employment within a broad range of academic, professional and technical fields. Mathematical Studies aims to prepare students for the mathematical demands of higher education and work where there is a distinct mathematical or statistical element, but where the mathematical demands do not stretch to a requirement for A-level mathematics. A course of study leading to this qualification should enable students to:

• study a mathematics curriculum that is integrated with other areas of their study, work or interest leading to the application of mathematics in these areas

• develop mathematical modelling, evaluating and reasoning skills

• solve problems some of which will not be well defined and may not have a unique solution

• solve substantial and real life problems encountered by adults

• use ICT as an exploratory tool for developing mathematical understanding and when solving problems

• develop skills in the communication, selection, use and interpretation of their mathematics

• enjoy mathematics and develop confidence in using mathematics

This course will be taught in a group with two teachers. You will be expected to make an active contribution to whatever you are working on, whether it be a group-based or solo based piece of work: assignments will include both written work and research. Students will be expected to participate in class discussions and share their research with the group.

This is a one-year course and will be assessed at the end of the academic year through two examinations of equal weighting. This means that the qualification is banked before the terminal examinations of a student’s other A level subjects.

Paper one will only be on the compulsory content:

3.1 Analysis of data

3.2 Maths for personal finance

3.3 Estimation

There are three options for Paper 2:

2A, 2B, 2C

2A 3.4 Critical analysis of given data and models (Compulsory content) 3.5 The normal distribution 3.6 Probabilities and estimation 3.7 Correlation and regression

2B 3.4 Critical analysis of given data and models (Compulsory content) 3.8 Critical path and risk analysis 3.9 Expectation 3.10 Cost benefit analysis

2C 3.4 Critical analysis of given data and models (Compulsory content) 3.11 Graphical methods 3.12 Rates of change 3.13 Exponential functions

Students will study a variety of A level subjects, they will be taught all optional content that is relevant to the qualifications studied within the class. Which specific paper students’ study will depend on their strengths and needs for future qualifications and aspirations.

GCSE Grade 5 in Maths

Studying Core Maths helps students to develop important skills through using and applying maths to solve meaningful and real-life problems. Students develop data handling and critical analysis skills. Courses cover financial maths, including working with exchange rates, interest rates and taxation, and the use of spreadsheets for optimisation and cost-benefit analysis.

Many employers use numeracy tests as part of the application process. Studying Maths beyond GCSE helps keep mathematical skills fresh, which can help students to perform better in such tests.