About.

Mathematics is a fundamental subject that is essential for many Science and Engineering disciplines and applications. Further Mathematics is a challenging and rewarding course which builds upon the knowledge and skills gained through the study of A-Level Mathematics. Having a deep and strong understanding of these topics will allow you to access and see the beauty and power of the Mathematics and its use as a tool to solve even more complex problems that occur in the world around us. It will also allow you to access the highest grades in this qualification. 

The QR (Quick response) code system is a two-dimensional matrix bar code that contains error correction codes based upon polynomials, which are studied in the Pure Mathematics section of the course. This section also includes the transformation of curves which can be used to model the curve of Golden Gate Bridge as well as Logarithms which are used in Astronomy to help with very large numbers.

The aim of A-Level Further Mathematics is to:

  • Develop an even greater depth of understanding of the mathematical processes used to solve ever more complex problems and foster confidence and enjoyment. 
  • Extend the range of mathematical skills and techniques and use them in more complex and unstructured problems. 
  • Experience the beauty of the mechanics of Mathematics and ‘how things just fit together’.
  • Recognise where Mathematics is a tool to help understand the processes in other subjects such as Science, Engineering and Art. 
  • Recognise how a complex situation may be represented mathematically and understand the relationship between real world problems and other mathematical problems and how these can be refined and improved in order to increase accuracy.
  • Acquire the skills needed to use technology such as calculators, iPads and computers effectively, and recognise when such use may be inappropriate and to be aware of their limitations.
  • Develop an awareness of the relevance of Mathematics to other fields of study, the world of work and to society in general.
  • Take increasing responsibility for your own learning and evaluation of your own mathematical development. 

The areas studied in A-Level Further Mathematics overlap with many other A-Level courses such as Engineering, Product Design, Physics, Chemistry and Business. Studying A-Level Further Mathematics requires a disciplined, logical, resilient and creative mind. It is academically challenging, as a consequence it requires a highly committed attitude to studies. Success however, will open many doors to an extremely large number of degree courses and financially rewarding career opportunities.

Complementary Subjects.

Through the study of A-Level Further Mathematics there are many career pathways which are available to students including going onto University to study for a degree in Mathematics, Dentistry, Medicine, Sciences, Engineering, Architecture, Accountancy, Project Management, Optometry and Sports Science. This is not an exhaustive list and there are many other financially rewarding career choices which can be made following the completion of the A-Level Further Mathematics qualification.

Biology Chemistry Physics Engineering

Career Pathways.

Through the study of A-Level Further Mathematics there are many career pathways which are available to students including going onto University to study for a degree in Mathematics, Dentistry, Medicine, Sciences, Engineering, Architecture, Accountancy, Project Management, Optometry and Sports Science. This is not an exhaustive list and there are many other financially rewarding career choices which can be made following the completion of the A-Level Further Mathematics qualification.

Careers Page

Student Views.

A-Level Further Maths is good and the teaching standards are really high here. I’m possibly looking to do Mechanical Engineering as a career and the Further Maths A-Level will be really useful and is helpful for pretty much any Engineering degree.

- Silas Williams

Further Maths is a stimulating course and is fantastic if you want to challenge and push yourself. The topics are interesting and it gives a whole new insight into Maths. It allows you to explore different concepts in more depth and equips you with the knowledge for Engineering. Universities look fondly at Further Maths in regards to Engineering, so it was a course I wanted to do to boost my chances of doing the degree I want. It can be a little trying at times, but if you like Maths and are willing to put the work in Further Maths is the course for you.

- Nahvoma Ntungwen
Further Information.

If you require further information on any aspect of the course you should contact the following:

Ayan Farah
Mrs Ayan Farah,
Director of Maths & Teaching & Learning

Assessment.

Teaching Units, Assessment Method and Weighting.

Content Overview
Assessment Method
Weighting
Paper 1 - Core Pure Mathematics 1 • Paper 2: Core Pure Mathematics 2
• Proof
• Complex Numbers
• Matrices
• Further algebra and functions
• Further Calculus
• Further Vectors
• Polar Coordinates
• Hyperbolic functions
• Differential equations
Each paper is:
1hr 30mins written examination
75 marks total
Each paper is 25% of the total weighting
Assessment overview

• Paper 1 and paper 2 may contain questions on any topics from the Pure Mathematics content.
• Students must answer all questions.
• Calculators can be used in the assessment.
Paper 3 - Further Mathematics Option 1
Students take one of the following four options:

• Further Pure Mathematics 1
• Further Statistics 1
• Further Mechanics 1
• Decision Mathematics 1
1hr 30 min written paper
75 marks
25% of total weighting
Assessment overview:

• Students must answer all questions.
• Calculators can be used in the assessment.
Paper 4 - Further Mathematics Option 2
Students take one of the following four options:

• Further Pure Mathematics 1
• Further Statistics 1
• Further Mechanics 1
• Decision Mathematics 1
• Further Statistics 2
• Further Mechanics 2
• Decision Mathematics 2
1hr 30 min written paper
75 marks
25% of total weighting
Assessment overview:

• Students must answer all questions.
• Calculators can be used in the assessment.