Mathematics and Further Mathematics

Sixth Form mathematics at AS and A level follows the Edexcel modular scheme.  All the modules are equally weighted and six modules make an A level.  An AS level is three modules, roughly equivalent to half an A level.  There is no coursework or practical work in the mathematics course. Each module is tested in a single 90-minute written examination.

The twelve modules we offer fall into three types:

Pure Mathematics: core modules C1, C2, C3, C4 and further maths modules FP1, FP2, FP3, taking the students from GCSE maths up as far as differential equations, hyperbolic functions, complex numbers and matrix algebra.

Mechanics: modules M1 and M2 leading from basic concepts of force, energy and momentum up to kinematics with varying accelerations, elastic collisions and the statics of dangling, toppling and leaning bodies.

Statistics: modules S1, S2 and S3 starting with basic data representation, principles and examples of probability distributions, and leading up to hypothesis testing and calculation of confidence limits.

Students must first decide how much mathematics they want to take.  They may choose to do:

             an AS level (three modules in one year); or

             a single A level (six modules in two years); or

             two A levels (twelve modules in two years).

Students opting to do one A-level must choose between:

             Maths & Mechanics (C1, C2, C3, C4 and M1, M2) or

             Maths & Statistics (C1, C2, C3, C4 and S1, S2).

The Mechanics option fits well with A level Physics while the Statistics might be more suitable for students also studying Biology or the social sciences.  In both cases students have the option of dropping the subject after one year, giving them AS Mathematics (C1, C2, M1 or C1, C2, S1 respectively).

Students opting for two full maths A levels take all twelve modules, giving them A level Mathematics (C1, C2, C3, C4, M1, M2) and Further Mathematics (FP1, FP2, FP3, S1, S2, S3) at the end of two years.  This choice would be appropriate for students planning to apply for degree courses in Maths, Physics or Engineering, and is essential for those applying to study Mathematics at Oxford or Cambridge.

It is sometimes possible for students already taking single-subject mathematics to do an additional AS in Further Maths (for example FP1, FP2, FP3) in their second year, covering nine modules altogether.