Mathematics at A-Level involves studying the subject in greater depth than before, and developing ideas which were introduced at GCSE and Additional Mathematics level. It builds on work you will have met earlier, but also involves new ideas that some of the greatest minds of the millennium have produced. It serves as a very useful support for many other qualifications and is also a course worth studying in its own right.

• A-Level Mathematics is a qualification which is sought after by many Higher Education
establishments and it prepares a student for further study in many related disciplines. The subject is preferred or required in many degree courses. Mathematics forms the foundation of many other subjects including the Sciences, Economics and Engineering and is extremely relevant to subjects like Psychology and Design.

• An AS Level in Mathematics is also very valuable as a supporting subject to many other courses at A-Level and degree level.

• The subject at AS and A-Level is divided into three branches:
(1) Pure Mathematics
(2) Mechanics
(3) Statistics

Although there is a certain amount of memorise/recall/apply procedure, there is also room for much creative thinking. Once pupils have been instructed in basic methods, they are encouraged to work both independently and as part of a group to improve their mathematical techniques.

Additional Mathematics provides an excellent foundation for the course and would be considered an important link between GCSE and A-Level.

Some topics encountered in Additional Mathematics will be considered again in detail during the AS course and built upon for the A-Level course.

Entry Requirements

Normally it is assumed that students have completed the Additional Mathematics course and achieved at least a grade C. It may also be possible to study Mathematics at A Level if students have achieved a high grade A or A* in GCSE Mathematics. In this case the student should discuss the proposed course with the Head of Department and subsequent entry will be at his discretion.