Mathematics

If considering a degree in Mathematics, its excellence as an academic discipline should not be ignored.

Helen Evans, Head of Mathematics

Galileo realised that the study of Mathematics was vital for the fields that he was interested in, and students nowadays wishing to go into further education to read Mathematics, Engineering, Physics, Computer Science and Actuarial Science must study Mathematics as an A Level course. Degree courses in Economics, Chemistry and related courses also usually contain a significant mathematical component. Those going on to study Medicine, Biological Sciences and the Social Sciences and even Philosophy may find that Mathematics is recommended, but even if not, they may have to undertake further mathematical training at some stage, and this can be a challenge for a student who has not studied the subject for two or three years.

If considering a degree in Mathematics, its excellence as an academic discipline should not be ignored; graduates in the subject are in high demand. Studying the subject at A Level will also help develop analytical, research and problem-solving skills. Not only can it provide the knowledge to tackle scientific, mechanical, coding and abstract problems, it will develop skills to help with planning projects, managing budgets and even debating effectively.

Mathematics is the most popular subject choice at Clifton, with well over half the Sixth Form opting to continue its study. These large numbers enable us to create five ‘single’ Mathematics classes, and we find that effective streaming of these classes enables us to alter approaches and provision accordingly.

Course content and assessment

Students follow the linear A Level Mathematics Edexcel 9MA0 specification. The content is 100% prescribed and features a large element of Pure Mathematics as well as covering areas of Statistics and Mechanics. The assessment features three papers at the end of Upper Sixth, all allowing use of a calculator, with the first two focusing on the Pure content and the third on the Applied content (Statistics and Mechanics).

Additional features

There is also an emphasis on Mathematics beyond the constraints of the A Level specifications. Students in the Sixth Form are entered for the UK Mathematics Trust Senior Mathematics Challenge. At the very top end, a handful of students will also qualify for the first round of the British Mathematical Olympiad. There is also the opportunity to take part in a Mathematical Enrichment Activity on Monday afternoons where they will compete in The National Cipher Challenge and other national problem solving competitions.

Students who wish to apply for degrees in Mathematics or related subjects are prepared for interview and university entrance tests and are also encouraged to read around the subject and deliver presentations to their peers on extension topics. Students are also offered opportunities to represent the College in competitions organised with local schools, and historically they have experienced a lot of success.

Facilities and staff

There are currently 14 members of staff who teach in the Mathematics Department (12 full-time and 2 part-time). There is a wealth of experience within the department and we pride ourselves on the level of support offered to the students, as well as outstanding subject knowledge, and a desire to remain innovative and conscious of developments in mathematics and education.

The Mathematics Department has several well-equipped classrooms as well as the Bradley Room, which contains a well-stocked library and provides an ideal venue for seminars and meetings.

What subjects does Mathematics combine with?

Mathematics combines well with all the sciences and social sciences. Equally, studying Mathematics alongside essay subjects, such as English or History, can help keep options open for a wider range of possible degrees and careers.

Entry Requirements

Grade 8 (or high A) in GCSE Mathematics.

Course Offered

A Level Edexcel Mathematics

Potential careers

Studying Mathematics helps you develop skills in logical thinking, problem-solving and decisionmaking, which are valued by employers across many job sectors. Jobs can range from, but are not limited to, being an investment banker, accountant, engineer, programmer, economist, actuary, teacher, or university lecturer to an insurance underwriter or a meteorologist.