Further Maths A Level
A Level Further Maths is a stimulating subject if you enjoy problem solving and want to study two maths A Levels. Throughout the course, you will:
- develop a very deep understanding of Mathematics and many of the underpinning theories involved in algebra, geometry and beyond
- master the skills required to reason logically, problem solve, model, generalise and construct mathematical proof
- greatly enhance your range of mathematical skills and techniques and use them in very advanced unstructured problems
- apply highly technical mathematical modelling knowledge to ‘real world’ problems, and think critically about how these can be refined
- increase your awareness of the relevance of mathematics to other fields of study, the world of work, advancing technologies and society in general
- take even greater control of your own learning and evaluation of your own mathematical development, in order to aid you in both further study and the real world.
Curriculum Intent
All students to believe they are capable of achieving high standards and becoming competent and resilient mathematicians.
What you will study
Year One
You will study compulsory core pure mathematics, expanding your work on mathematical arguments, modelling and problem solving skills. You will be introduced to complex numbers, matrices, series and vectors.
You will also study applied discrete mathematics in the Decision Mathematics 1 course, which you will be assessed on at the end of year two in a single examination.
Year Two
The second year expands upon the core pure mathematics content, introducing new concepts such as hyperbolic functions, differential equations and polar coordinates. Also, you will build upon the work done with complex numbers and series. You will sit two exam papers of equal weighting covering all of the core pure mathematics content at the end of the course.
You will continue to study applied discrete mathematics with the Decision Mathematics 2 course, which you will be assessed on at the end of the course in a single examination.
Entry requirements
- Five subjects at grade 4 or above, including English and maths
- Grade 8 or above in GCSE Mathematics is recommended. The minimum entry requirement is grade 7
- You have to study A Level Maths alongside A Level Further Maths
How the course is assessed
- Paper 1: Core Pure Mathematics, 25 %
- Paper 2: Core Pure Mathematics, 25 %
- Paper 3: Decision Mathematics 1, 25 %
- Paper 4: Decision Mathematics 2, 25 %
Why Study A Level Further Maths at Windsor Sixth Form?
- Expert teachers - Highly skilled teachers who have excellent subject knowledge, combined with a wealth of experience to ensure the greatest quality of teaching takes place.
- Excellent support - Teachers provide additional teaching and support in assisting with preparation for university entrance exams, such as TMUA and STEP.
Other courses that go well with A Level Further Maths
Further Mathematics A Level can only be studied alongside Maths A Level.
All marks awarded for A Level Further Maths exams are seperate from those awarded in A Level Maths examinations and cannot be used for both A Levels.
Maths combines well with several other subjects such as chemistry, physics, statistics, computing, geography and geology. Decision mathematics involves finding efficient solutions to problems. You can apply its methods to computer science and many real world situations.
What you can do after the course
Maths is essential for degree and higher education courses such as engineering, physics, and mathematics itself. Further maths is rarely compulsory but incredibly useful. Often universities will make reduced offers or financial incentives if you have studied further maths.
Mathematics is also a common part of degree courses such as business, architecture, chemistry, biology, psychology, management and computing.
The problem solving skills and statistical techniques are a useful tool to the study of a variety of science courses, such as medicine, nursing and geology, but are also helpful for the study of accounting and finance, sports studies, geography and design.
A Level Further Maths will provide you with essential skills for a wide range of careers. Employers respect the subject as it shows an ability to think logically and can help you progress to your chosen career or preferred university.
Where do our students progress to after the course?
Further mathematicians usually choose to develop their strong mathematical knowledge through studying mathematics or a very closely related subject at university, being in a prime position to gain entry to the prestigious Russell Group of universities as a result of studying this challenging course. Recent destinations for students in 2019 and 2020 include the University of Nottingham for mathematics and physics.
Student success stories
One student in 2020 and two students in 2021 achieved 4 A* grades at A level, placing them in the top percentile of the country as a result.