Why study mathematics?
Mathematics is an exciting intellectual challenge in its own right as well as a subject that supports a wide range of other courses.
The mathematics A-level course covers the three main branches of mathematics – pure mathematics, mechanics and statistics. The focus throughout the course will be on problem solving, clear and effective communication, and exploring the links between the various aspects of mathematics. The integration of technology is also front and centre.
Independent thought is encouraged and resilience developed as you strive to understand the key concepts underpinning a multistage problem. A-level mathematics is a highly regarded qualification and most importantly, when tackled with enthusiasm and determination, this course will be a great deal of fun.
If you have a particular interest in and flair for mathematics, you may choose to study A-level further mathematics as well, thus obtaining two different A-level qualifications. Last year, approximately 10% of our maths students chose to do this and all of them achieved grade B or above in their results.
Entry requirements
Grade 7 in mathematics at GCSE. Further maths requires grade 8 in mathematics at GCSE.
Potential courses
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The A-level course
| The curriculum is divided into three areas | • Pure mathematics: Methods and techniques underpinning all other areas of mathematics, including proof, algebra, trigonometry, calculus and vectors • Statistics: Statistical sampling, data presentation and probability leading to the study of statistical distributions • Mechanics: The study of the physical world, including forces and motion. |
| Students will take three examinations in total. Each 2 hour exam is worth one third of the A-level. | • Pure mathematics topics will be tested on at least two of the papers and account for 66% of the final assessment • Mechanics will account for 17% of the final assessment and will be tested on one paper only • Statistics will account for 17% of the final assessment and will be tested on one paper only. |
| Further mathematics: there will be six hours of examinations in total, divided into four papers | • Two papers are based entirely on pure mathematics, making up 50% of the course • For the remaining papers, topics are to be selected as best suits our students, from a mixture of statistics and mechanics. |
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