We follow the Edexcel Specifications 9MA0 (Mathematics). Students will take A Level examinations at the end of Year 13.

Why would I study Mathematics at A Level?

Most mathematicians would say that doing mathematics is a beautiful, fascinating and intellectually satisfying activity. It is a way of looking at the patterns that make up our world and the ways in which they are constructed. It is therefore worthwhile in its own right.

On the other hand, it is also the foundation on which the theories of many other applied subjects are built. Mathematics at A Level will give you the tools required to study, for example, the way the economy works, the motion of the planets, how to assess the risk of flooding, the speed of a chemical reaction, the behaviour of large groups of people, global warming forecasts and the way decision making is done in businesses.

Most employers put great value on a student having an A Level in Mathematics and take it as a sign that a person has sound reasoning and good numeracy. If you are considering continuing your study of Mathematics at Post 16, just to support your study of other subjects, it may be that the ‘Core Maths’ course is right for you, rather than A Level Mathematics. If you are wishing to study Mathematics at University or beyond, you may wish to consider Further Mathematics A Level.

What do I need to study Mathematics A Level?

For successful transition to A Level Mathematics, students need to have reached at least a Grade 6 at GCSE, or preferably a Grade 7.

If you are targeting a Grade 8 or 9 at GCSE, you may wish to consider taking Further Mathematics A Level.

Learning mathematics means learning how to solve problems using logical reasoning. This takes intelligence, insight and lots of practice.

Many people find that the change from GCSE to A Level mathematics is a big one. It is a subject that builds continuously on previous work so it can become very difficult if you fall behind. Serious application from the start of Year 12 is essential.

If you are concerned that the jump from GCSE to A Level may be too big for you, it is possible that the Core Maths course will be right for you rather than A Level Mathematics.

What do the courses involve?

The Mathematics A Level is comprised of a mixture of pure mathematics and applied mathematics. The pure mathematics sections are mainly algebra, with some trigonometry and number work. The applied mathematics sections are based on both statistics (data handling) and mechanics (forces and motion). All students will study both mechanics and statistics. There is no formally assessed coursework.

Lessons usually follow the same pattern with core concepts being taught and discussed followed by students working through Mathematics questions. In the current Mathematics A Level there is an increased focus on problem solving and using the pure mathematics skills to model real life situations.

Independent work will have to be undertaken each week to consolidate and reinforce the concepts learnt in lessons.

Structure of A Level Mathematics:

• Year 12: Five lessons per week split across pure and applied mathematics
• Year 13: Four lessons per week split across pure and applied mathematics

What else goes on for mathematicians at KES?

Students get the opportunity to enter the National Senior Mathematics Challenge each November and very able students can enter the British Mathematics Olympiad with coaching provided. We enter a team for other local and national competitions and we participate in the National Cipher Challenge. We have won prizes at all of these events. Furthermore, students wishing to progress to mathematics degrees at Oxbridge/Warwick/Imperial will receive support in preparing for their specific entry papers.