Core Mathematics

Course Description

Core Maths is intended for students who have passed GCSE Mathematics at grade 4 or better, but who have not chosen to study A-level Mathematics.  This advanced level of study is intended to increase numerical confidence and equip them with the mathematical skills required for their other subjects, higher education and employment.

Core Maths builds on GCSE Maths, with a focus on problem-solving and practical applications like financial and statistical mathematics.

Core Maths is studied over a one-year period, four lessons per week and can be taken alongside A-levels or a Mixed Study Programme.

It is assessed by 2 x 1.5 hour calculator examinations to be taken at the end of the course.

The course is split into two parts, a compulsory component and optional component, selected depending upon their study programme.

Paper 1: Personal Finance, Analysis of Data and Estimation  

Option Papers: You will take one of the following:

Paper 2A:  Critical Analysis, Normal Distribution, Probabilities and Estimation, Correlation and Regression

Paper 2C: Critical Analysis, Graphical Methods, Rates of Change and Exponential Functions.

Studying Core Maths helps students develop their quantitative and problem-solving skills. This gives them confidence in understanding the mathematical content in other courses they are taking. It helps them become better informed citizens, able to make sense of the information they will be presented with in employment, further study or later life.

Some universities show their recognition of the importance of level 3 maths qualifications through the admissions information on their websites for some degree courses.

The following universities make alternative offers to students with Core Maths qualifications, who apply for some of their degree courses.

Aston University
University of Bath
University of Essex
University of Exeter
University of Huddersfield
Keele University
Lancaster University
University of Leeds
University of Sheffield
University of York
 

Other universities, whilst not making formal reduced offers, do offer strong encouragement for the study of Core Maths and recognise its usefulness in preparation for their degree courses.

Examination

Analysing Data using a computer package session run by the Advanced Maths Support Programme.

Core Maths alumni

Nadine Bailey

Biology, Geography, Core Mathematics, Chemistry, EPQ

A*AABA*

Biomedical Sciences at The University of Edinburgh

Nadine Bailey

Biology, Geography, Core Mathematics, Chemistry, EPQ

A*AABA*

Biomedical Sciences at The University of Edinburgh

Entry requirements
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