Curriculum Vision and Intent
Our Further Mathematics curriculum aims to extend the learning for our students of Mathematics, in order to develop even deeper problem-solving skills, and to provide students with the specialist knowledge necessary to succeed on highly mathematical degree courses and in mathematical careers.
KS5 curriculum and assessment
What will I study?
This course consists of two compulsory and two optional modules. It builds on the subject content of A-Level Mathematics so must be studied alongside this qualification. In the two compulsory Further Pure Mathematics modules, new and established topics are considered further; for example, complex numbers, matrix algebra, differential equations, Maclaurin and Taylor series.
We offer Decision Maths as the first optional module where some more unusual topics, such as critical path analysis and networks will be studied. The choice of final option module will be taken by staff and students during the course.
The course extends the range of mathematical skills and techniques learnt. It encourages and develops an understanding of coherence and progression in Mathematics and how different areas of Mathematics can be connected.
How will I be assessed?
Exam Board: Edexcel
Syllabus no: 9FM0
Each module is assessed by a 1.5 hour exam, worth 25% of the qualification, taken at the end of Year 13. There is no coursework.
- Component 1: Further Pure Mathematics 1
- Component 2: Further Pure Mathematics 2
- Component 3: Decision Mathematics 1
- Component 4: (usually) Further Mechanics 1
What are the entry requirements?
A-Level Further Mathematics assumes that students will use the mathematical background and expertise developed in A-Level Mathematics, thus a high degree of motivation and interest is needed. Students must have a genuine interest in the subject in order to get the most from the course. A grade 8 or 9 at GCSE is preferred.
Combinations
Further Mathematics can only be undertaken if A-Level Mathematics has been chosen. It is very well respected for university entrance and combines with any other A-Level subject.
Extra and super-curricular opportunities
Our Further Mathematics students enjoy all of the extra-curricular provision of the other Mathematics students, but with added information and support for maths-based courses and careers.
Future opportunities (careers, university courses)
Further Mathematics is rarely listed as an essential requirement for degree courses, but on certain Maths, Engineering, and Physics courses, the majority of students will have studied the Further Mathematics A-Level. As such, it is useful to have this qualification on some courses at University. A-Level Further Mathematics is considered highly valuable on the following degree courses:
- Actuarial Science
- Aeronautical Engineering
- Biochemistry
- Chemical Engineering
- Chemistry
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Science
- Electrical Engineering
- Engineering (General)
- Materials Science
- Mathematics
- Mechanical Engineering
- Medicine
- Optometry
- Physics
5 years after finishing their A-Levels, students of Further Mathematics earn higher average salaries than students of any other A-Level courses. As this shows, it is a highly well-respected A-Level, regardless of which degree course is chosen.
