FURTHER MATHEMATICS

Everything that applies to Mathematics applies to Further Mathematics, but these days Mathematics pervades many more subjects, as they recognise the important role that quantitative analysis has to play in all walks of life. Reasons to study Further Mathematics include:

Pupils taking Further Mathematics overwhelmingly find it to be an enjoyable, rewarding, stimulating and empowering experience. It is a challenging qualification, which both extends and deepens your knowledge and understanding beyond the standard A level Mathematics.

For someone who enjoys Mathematics, it provides a challenge and a chance to explore new and/or more sophisticated mathematical concepts. As well as learning new areas of pure Mathematics you will study further applications of Mathematics in mechanics and statistics.

Pupils who take Further Mathematics find that the additional time spent studying Mathematics boosts their marks in single A level Mathematics. Studying

Further Mathematics consolidates and reinforces your standard A level Mathematics work, helping you to achieve your best possible grades.

It makes the transition from Sixth Form to university courses which are mathematically rich that much easier as more of the first year course content will be familiar. If you are planning to take a degree such as Engineering, Sciences, Computing, Finance/ Economics, etc., or perhaps Mathematics itself, you will benefit enormously from taking Further Mathematics.

It enables pupils to distinguish themselves as able mathematicians in their applications for university and future employment. Further Mathematics qualifications are highly regarded and are warmly welcomed by universities. Pupils who take Further Mathematics are really demonstrating a strong commitment to their studies, as well as learning Mathematics that is very useful for any mathematically rich degree.

• Mathematics

Two papers in Pure Mathematics, one in Mechanics and Statistics

• Further Mathematics

Two papers in Pure Mathematics and two papers in Applied Mathematics

The Mathematics and Further Mathematics options occupy two of the four principal-subject option blocks. In this option pupils have alsmost double the contact time, 11 periods per week.

Only two other A level choices will therefore be available. These must also be continued for two years to ensure pupils have a breadth of study, desirable for universities.

Further Mathematics is taught entirely separately from Single Mathematics, in different sets. This is to allow the pace to be tailored to the ability of the set.

In the so-called knowledge economy which pupils are entering after school, Mathematics is highly desired due to the logical and analytical problem solving skills it develops. Through solving problems you develop resilience and are able to think creatively and strategically.