AS Core Mathematics

AS LEVEL

Core Mathematics is an exciting Mathematics qualification. It is the Maths you need to move on to independent living, as you think about leaving home and getting a job. Core Mathematics makes you more mathematically aware, more employable and less susceptible to the mathematical pitfalls of life.

Core Maths builds on the mathematical skills developed at GCSE and focuses on applying mathematics to real-life situations. The course develops problem-solving, analytical and decision-making skills that are highly valued by universities, employers and apprenticeship providers.

Topics include student loans, car finance, personal budgeting, insurance, medical risk, estimation, business planning and spreadsheet modelling. The qualification also strengthens the mathematical skills required in many other Level 3 subjects, including Economics, Psychology, Sociology, Geography, Business, Sport, History and Music.

It is widely welcomed by many universities – with some altering entry requirements for those with a high grade in this qualification. You can choose Core Maths alongside three or four other subjects, including Mathematics A-Level.

Subject requirements:

Minimum of GCSE 4 in Maths (5 is recommended).

Teacher to contact - Miss S Barker
 

Course Content

The Course Covers

  • Statistics and algebra
  • Probability and estimation
  • Data analysis and modelling
  • Financial planning and management
  • Sequences and growth
  • Spreadsheet modelling and technology
  • Collaborative problem-solving techniques

Why Choose Core Maths?

We strongly encourage all students intending to join the Sixth Form at SWCHS to study Core Maths alongside their chosen qualifications. Core Maths is designed as an enhancement subject to complement A Levels and BTEC qualifications. It is available to all students who achieve at least a Grade 4 at GCSE Mathematics, although a Grade 5 or above is preferred.

The qualification is studied only in Year 12, allowing students to gain an additional valuable qualification while maintaining greater capacity to focus on their remaining studies in Year 13.

Core Maths is taught for seven hours per fortnight in Year 12 and carries the same UCAS tariff value as an AS Level qualification. Research has shown that it can enhance achievement in a wide range of subjects, including Criminology, Psychology, Sport Science, History, Geology, Geography, Health and Social Care, Business and Economics. Many students also choose to study Core Maths alongside A Level Mathematics.

The qualification is well regarded by a growing number of universities, including Sheffield, Manchester, Bath, York and Kent, with some institutions offering reduced entry requirements or favourable consideration for applicants studying Core Maths.

Core Maths continues to grow in prominence and can provide a valuable advantage for students applying for apprenticeships or entering employment directly after Sixth Form. It is widely recognised as a practical and relevant qualification that develops higher-level mathematical skills beyond GCSE Mathematics. 

Curriculum Map

Assessment Criteria

The course is assessed in two, 2-hour written examinations at the end of Year 12.

Exam Board: OCR Unit code: H866

Are you interested in:

  • Personal finance, eg budgeting, tax returns, interest, credit and loans?
  •  Analysing and evaluating data?
  • Financial calculations and business modelling?
  • Probability and estimation calculations?
  • Sequences and growth scenarios in the natural world, science and technology?

Leading to all careers in:

  • Finance
  • Cyber Intelligence
  • Criminology
  • Journalism
  • Data Analysis and Statistics

Core Maths can be studied alongside any A Level or BTEC course and is particularly beneficial for students taking:

  • Economics
  • Business
  • Psychology
  • Geography
  • Criminology
  • Health & Social Care
  • Sport
  • Sociology
  • History

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