Mathematics

Not ready for a full ‘A’ Level programme?

You might want to do ‘A’ Levels but don’t have the GCSE grades required – don’t worry! At ncn you can study ‘AS’ Levels alongside GCSEs. Find out more...

Mathematics can be studied at ncn High Pavement Sixth Form College.

This course can also be studied over two years, or as an intensive one-year programme for post-sixth form students or those aged 19+ at ncn High Pavement Sixth Form College.

What kind of student is this course suitable for?

Mathematics is a subject that can be taken with any other subjects, and many of our students take it alongside Business Studies, Economics, Psychology, Sociology, Geography and Languages as well as the Sciences. As part of an ‘A’ Level course, you will study Pure Mathematics, building on the work you did at GCSE and extending your range of mathematical skills and techniques to solve more difficult problems. Students will also get the chance to study Statistics. In Statistics the emphasis is on producing statistical ‘models’ of real life situations and testing hypotheses.

What will I achieve from the course?

During your lessons you will develop a variety of skills, largely directed towards being able to use mathematics to solve problems and to be able to communicate your knowledge to other people. This will involve working in groups as well as on your own, using computers and other Information Technology to assist in your learning, and writing up your coursework projects.

In addition to the work in lessons, you will be developing the ability to work independently and organise your own time. In order to do this, you will be expected to spend about three hours a week outside timetabled lessons on a variety of tasks, often producing written answers to questions, but also collecting statistical data or using computer software packages.

Where the course may lead?

Students studying an ‘A’ Level course in Maths progress to an unlimited variety of careers and courses in Higher Education.

Length

  • 'AS' in Year 1
  • 'A2' in Year 2

Entry Requirements

'AS': at least Grade B in GCSE Mathematics. Students with grade C may be able to study ‘AS’ Level Maths over two years. Students may also be required to attend an introductory bridging course after completion of GCSEs.
'A2': at least Grade E in 'AS' Mathematics

Course Content

3 units at 'AS' Level and 3 units at 'A2' Level including Pure Mathematics and Statistics.

It is assumed that you will have your own scientific calculator. A graphical calculator is also strongly recommended - ask your tutor for advice before buying one.

Assessment

A combination of examinations and one piece of coursework.

Aims & Ambitions

A Higher Education course in Mathematics, Business, Accountancy, Science, Computing, Engineering, Economics or a career in one of these areas.