Core Maths

For entry into the Sixth Form to study 3 A' Levels, students are required to achieve 5 grades at 9-5 (or where applicable A*-C) including English Language and Mathematics at Grade 4 or above.

In exceptional cases, students that do not reach the entry criteria based on their attainment in English or mathematics will be admitted to the 6th form with the addition of GCSE retake classes in the appropriate subject to their timetable. This based on 6th form discretion.

While we would encourage students to study 3 A levels, in exceptional cases and following conversation at interview we may support a student to study 4. All students will have the option to study for Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) alongside their A levels.

A grade 6 is recommended in any subject that a student wishes to continue at A Level. Students are welcome to discuss entry criteria for specific subjects and to ensure that their subject choices match their goals and aspirations.

Students wishing to study Mathematics require a grade 6 and in Further Maths require a Grade 7 in the subject at GCSE.

Core Maths is a specific type of level 3 maths qualification that is defined by the government’s technical guidance . These qualifications are equal in size to an AS level qualification and are graded A-E. They have the same number of UCAS tariff points as an AS level qualification.

Core Maths is intended for students who have passed GCSE Mathematics at grade 4 or better, but who have not chosen to study AS or A level Mathematics. It can be studied in a single year or over a two-year period and can be taken alongside A levels or other qualifications, including vocational courses.

Studying Core Maths helps students develop their quantitative and problem-solving skills. This is valuable preparation for the quantitative skills they will need for many degree courses, particularly subjects such as psychology, geography, business-related courses, sports and social sciences, and natural science courses that do not require AS/A Mathematics.

All Core Maths qualifications include:

interpreting solutions in the context of the problem

understanding sources of error and bias when problem-solving

working with data

understanding risk and probability

understanding variation in statistics

using exponential functions to model growth and decay

Most Core Maths qualifications also include:

percentage change

interpretation of graphs

financial maths

using standard units

Fermi estimation

the Normal distribution

correlation, knowing it does not imply causation

making and evaluating assumptions when modelling or problem solving

Maths minimum Grade 4