Core Maths

Core Maths is a one-year Level 3 course, equivalent to an AS Level. It will help you maintain and develop your mathematical skills from GCSE, preparing you for further study or employment. Many find it insightful and applicable to real-life situations, including personal finance. Offered by AQA, Core Maths enhances career prospects and earning potential by supporting skills in quantitative reasoning and critical analysis. Study Core Maths to keep these essential skills sharp!

The course has been designed to maintain and develop real-life maths skills. Unlike A Level Maths, where there is an emphasis on algebra and purely abstract mathematical thought, with Core Maths the focus is instead on using Maths in real contexts, such as interpreting data from the media and personal finance. The emphasis on problem solving and modelling supports the study of other A Level subjects – in particular, business, economics, geography, PE, psychology and science.

This is a one-year qualification with two exams at the end (no coursework). Each exam lasts 1 hour 30 minutes.

Paper 1 – Analysis of data, personal finance and estimation.

Paper 2 – Correlation and regression, normal distribution and confidence intervals.

Preliminary Material – Both papers require using real-world figures and information to critically analyse and evaluate.

You will need to have a Grade 5 or above in GCSE Maths to be accepted onto the course.

Students with a Grade 4 will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

This course is unique as it is a one-year qualification, meaning that you can study Core Maths in Year 12 or Year 13.

Since Core Maths is designed to support the study of other A Level subjects, it is studied alongside your A Levels, meaning that it is taken as a fourth subject.

We also ask for an average GCSE point score of 5 or above (based on 8 or more GCSEs) to study an A Level programme. For more information visit: Entry Requirements

Core Maths plays a vital role, not only supporting students with the mathematical content in their other subjects but providing an opportunity for students to continue with their mathematical study in situations when A Level Mathematics may not be appropriate.