There is no doubt that mathematics is important for its applications in virtually every field of study, whether it be in the sciences, business, sport or medicine, but hopefully you will also enjoy studying mathematics for its own sake and come to appreciate its power and diversity. In order to solve problems in the real world, we often begin by translating the situation into mathematical equations to give us a clearer appreciation of the underlying aspects of the problem. We then solve the problem using mathematics and apply our findings to make predictions of what will happen in different circumstances. Where else can you solve an infinite number of problems in one go?

This two-year course is highly valued by universities and businesses alike. It will help you to develop the analytical and problem-solving skills employers need. Building on your GCSE algebra skills, you will learn how to interpret information and prove important results, using mathematical equations to model real-world situations. A combination of pure and applied mathematics will help you to think logically and make accurate observations. Maths is critical to understanding science and sits well alongside any combination of A level subjects. The first year covers algebra, graphs and functions, trigonometry, Calculus and proof. Alongside this pure maths, you’ll meet some practical applications in statistics and mechanics.

The second year follows on, with algebra again making up two-thirds of the course and applied maths providing the rest. Exams will assess your problem-solving skills at the end of two years. The statistical element looks at how to analyse data and draw conclusions about what it tells us. It covers correlation, probability, hypothesis testing and some frequency distributions. Mechanics involves forces and motion, using equations to model practical situations and predict how an object will move.

For A level Mathematics: GCSE Maths at grade 7 or higher; grade 6 considered on an individual basis.

The course will be assessed in examinations at the end of the second year, with three 2-hour papers.

Building on GCSE skills but with a focus on practical problem-solving, it is particularly useful for science students and anyone studying A levels involving analysing data. Many A levels now include a greater emphasis on mathematical skills and understanding statistical calculations. The course covers data analysis, personal finance and mathematical modelling. It will explore statistical measures and probability, including the normal distribution, applying these tools to predict outcomes and make sensible estimates about everyday situations based on limited data.

The course will sit alongside your A levels, boosting your credentials and giving you additional UCAS points. It is a highly valued qualification, recognised by universities and employers, equivalent to 40% of a full A level. Taking this course will demonstrate an ability to manage a fuller programme of study than most A level students and a mathematical proficiency beyond GCSE.

GCSE Mathematics at grade 5 or above

• 100% by examination: two 1.5 hour papers in May/Jun

• Exam questions based on data sources that are made available 3 weeks before the exams.

• An additional course to support A levels that have a significant mathematical content

• A fourth qualification to boost your credentials when applying for university or employment

• A one-year course, worth up to 20 UCAS points

• A Level 3 qualification with the equivalent status of an AS course (40% of a full A level)

• Only available to students not taking A level Mathematics

• Exam board: AQA

• 4 hours’ teaching per week

This course is for students who want to delve deeper into mathematics and leads to two A levels, in Mathematics and Further Maths. It is recommended that you take four A levels overall. As with the single Mathematics A level, the course comprises pure and applied maths and is especially suitable for those who wish to go on to study a maths-related course at university, such as Economics, Finance or STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics). The course is fast-paced and highly rewarding for those who like a challenge. The pure maths element embraces Matrices, Complex Numbers and Differential Equations.

For Double Maths: at least 7 GCSEs, the majority at higher grades including Maths at grade 7.

Mathematics develops all of the skills that are in high demand among graduates and school-leavers:

• Problem solving – you will learn to interpret a question and apply appropriate techniques to obtain an answer. That’s what makes maths one of the most rewarding subjects to study!

• Communication – Mathematics is a language. You will learn to express yourself succinctly with precision, using correct terminology. There is no room for ambiguity in mathematics!

• Teamwork – Working on your own will develop your powers of concentration; however, much of the learning is done collaboratively, discussing problems and pooling ideas to find a way through to an answer.

• Analysis – A key skill in maths is to break problems down and to make sense of a complex situation by analysing it in a piecemeal fashion. You will learn to interpret technical information, presented in tables, charts, graphs and diagrams…not to mention algebra!

• Resilience – Staying power is essential if you are going to solve a tricky problem. You’ll learn not to give up, but to keep trying different approaches to find a way through.

• Logical reasoning – you will be able to argue a case logically and to confirm results using mathematical proof. You’ll see how to draw general conclusions from evidence and understand the implications of a general principle in particular circumstances.

• Independence – You will learn to be self-reliant and work things out for yourself.

• Organisation – You’ll have to be disciplined, learning to manage your workload, selecting the resources you need and meeting deadlines, practising skills and getting help when you need it.

A level Mathematics and Further Maths are among the most highly-valued qualifications and can lead to many different careers and courses of study. All STEM and medical degree courses require Mathematics. Double Maths is highly desirable for Engineering, Economics, Computer Science, Physics and Mathematics. A maths qualification will boost your earning power. Many of the top jobs require maths, from game design to architecture, from accountancy to intelligence services.

The course will be assessed in examinations at the end of the second year:

• A level Mathematics: three 2-hour papers

• A level Further Mathematics: four 1.5 hour papers

Desirable for students considering a maths-related degree (Maths, Computer Science, Physics or Engineering); 10 hours p.w.

• Consists of two A levels: Mathematics and Further Mathematics

• A level Maths includes two thirds pure maths (algebra) plus one third applied maths (mechanics and statistics)

• A level Further Maths: 50% pure maths, 50% further mechanics and decision maths.

• Exam board: Edexcel

• Entry requirements: At least 7 GCSEs, the majority at grades 7-9, including Mathematics

• Opportunity to compete in local and national competitions, including UK Senior Maths Challenge, Maths Olympiad and the Rotary Club Technology Tournament

• Trips & talks: offsite events, e.g. Maths in Action; visiting speakers on careers and real-world applications of mathematics

• Extra support sessions for those sitting additional entrance tests (MAT, STEP, UKCAT etc.)

• Suitable enrichments include:

  • Problem-Solving Masterclass (preparing for the UK Senior Maths Challenge)
  • STEP Prep (preparing for the MAT, STEP & TMUA entrance tests)
  • Maths in Action
  • Rotary Technology Tournament
  • Maths SYMPLI-fiers

For Further Maths: GCSE Maths at grade 7 or higher and on course for A/A* in A level Mathematics

Mathematics develops all of the skills that are in high demand among graduates and school-leavers:

• Problem solving – you will learn to interpret a question and apply appropriate techniques to obtain an answer. That’s what makes maths one of the most rewarding subjects to study!

• Communication – Mathematics is a language. You will learn to express yourself succinctly with precision, using correct terminology. There is no room for ambiguity in mathematics!

• Teamwork – Working on your own will develop your powers of concentration; however, much of the learning is done collaboratively, discussing problems and pooling ideas to find a way through to an answer.

• Analysis – A key skill in maths is to break problems down and to make sense of a complex situation by analysing it in a piecemeal fashion. You will learn to interpret technical information, presented in tables, charts, graphs and diagrams…not to mention algebra!

• Resilience – Staying power is essential if you are going to solve a tricky problem. You’ll learn not to give up, but to keep trying different approaches to find a way through.

• Logical reasoning – you will be able to argue a case logically and to confirm results using mathematical proof. You’ll see how to draw general conclusions from evidence and understand the implications of a general principle in particular circumstances.

• Independence – You will learn to be self-reliant and work things out for yourself.

• Organisation – You’ll have to be disciplined, learning to manage your workload, selecting the resources you need and meeting deadlines, practising skills and getting help when you need it.

A level Mathematics and AS Further Maths are among the most highly-valued qualifications and can lead to many different careers and courses of study. All STEM and medical degree courses require Mathematics. AS Further Maths is highly desirable for Engineering, Economics, Computer Science, Physics and Mathematics. A maths qualification will boost your earning power. Many of the top jobs require maths, from game design to architecture, from accountancy to intelligence services.

The course will be assessed in examinations at the end of the second year: two 100-minute papers.

• Fact file:

  • Consists of two thirds pure maths (algebra) plus one third applied maths (a combination of mechanics and statistics)

  • Exam board: Edexcel

  • Opportunity to compete in local and national competitions, including UK Senior Maths Challenge, Maths Olympiad and Rotary Club Technology Challenge

  • Trips & talks: offsite events, e.g. Maths in Action; visiting speakers on careers and real-world applications of mathematics

  • Maths Workshop: daily drop-in sessions for help with homework assignments

  • (For Double Maths, i.e. Mathematics + Further Maths, see separate page: Double Maths)

  • Extra support sessions for those sitting additional entrance tests (STEP, MAT, TMUA etc)

• Essential for A level Physics, desirable for other sciences; 5 hours p.w.
• Highly desirable for maths-related degree courses, e.g. Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science
• Consists of 50% pure maths (algebra) and 50% applied maths (a combination of mechanics and decision maths)
• Exam board: Edexcel

If you miss out on a grade 4 at school, we offer a fast-track resit course, with the option to retake the exams in November. Our excellent pass-rate means your future plans won’t be disrupted: you can gain that qualification early in the year whilst at the same time getting on with your other chosen courses. Job done!

Topics covered include:

• Simple calculations involving numbers, fractions and percentages

• Simple algebra: formulas, equations & expressions

• Charts & graphs

• Area, perimeter and volume

• Shapes, angles, bearings and scale drawings

• Averages, statistical graphs and calculations

• Trigonometry

• Transformations and vectors

• Compound measures including speed, rates and comparisons of best value

GCSE Mathematics at grade 3.

GCSE Mathematics can be studied alongside a level 3 programme (A levels or BTEC advanced diploma). It is a one-year course, so you can resit the course in your first year of college and free up your time in the second year to focus on your other studies. We all know that GCSE Maths is a required qualification for many jobs and university courses. It gives you the all-important number skills for life – to understand your pay and budget for household bills; to interpret data presented in charts, graphs and tables and perform simple calculations, including the use of algebra.

• 100% by examination: two calculator papers and one non-calculator paper

• Two opportunities to sit the exams: November and May/Jun

• If you pass in November, you do not need to complete the year.

• One year resit course – Foundation tier; 4 hours p.w.

• November exam (three papers)

• Exam board: Edexcel

• Second resit opportunity: May/Jun

The Award in Number and Measure is an excellent stepping-stone to GCSE Maths. You’ll cover topics including budgeting and financial calculations, shapes and area, measurement, charts, tables and graphs. We all know that maths is essential whatever your future plans. Our supportive, inspirational teachers will coach you through the basics and identify the areas you need to work on to build your confidence and make sense of numerical data. Spending enough time on each section of the course and getting plenty of exam practice, you will gain confidence as your skills and understanding develop.

GCSE Mathematics at grade 2 or below.

The Award is a qualification to demonstrate good basic numeracy; the skills needed for work. Successful students can go on to gain a GCSE Mathematics qualification in their second year at QMC.

• 100% by examination: one 1-hour calculator paper plus one 30-minute non-calc paper.

• Regular tests in class and past papers will allow you to prepare for the final exams.

• Calculations involving numbers, fractions and percentages

• Charts & graphs

• Perimeter, area and volume of shapes, including metric units

• Ratio and probability

Most materials will be supplied for you – printed booklets and practice papers. You will need basic maths equipment including a ruler, protractor and a pair of compasses. You will also need a calculator, which you can buy from the Resources shop in college. You may not use a mobile phone for this purpose as they will not be permitted in examinations.