Core Maths
Subject: Level 3 Certificate in Mathematical Studies (Core Maths)
Qualification Level: AS Level Equivalent
Qualification Duration: 1 year
Exam Board: AQA
Overview:
Level 3 AQA Certificate in Mathematical Studies (Core Maths) is designed for students who have enjoyed Maths at GCSE but have decided to pursue other A Levels; its aim is to continue developing pupils’ mathematical skills alongside their A-level studies. The course focuses on applying mathematics to real-life situations, helping students become confident in using maths to solve practical problems, interpret data, make informed decisions, and understand financial and statistical information. It supports subjects such as the sciences, geography, psychology, business, economics, and social sciences, while developing the quantitative skills valued by universities and employers. The qualification also attracts UCAS Tariff points, with a top grade worth 20 points, equivalent to an AS Level, providing a valuable addition to university applications while demonstrating continued engagement with mathematics beyond GCSE.
Year 1 content:
This course takes place during Year 12; there is one compulsory paper which includes the following…
Paper 1: Written Exam: 90 Minutes: 60 Marks
- Analysis of data
- Maths for personal finance
- Estimation
There is also a choice of one of three other papers, the team will only teach one of these, we will decide which one based on the cohort of pupils we get so that they can best benefit from the content based on their A Levels; these are detailed below…
Paper 2A: Statistical Techniques: Written Exam: 90 Minutes: 60 Marks
- Critical analysis of given data and models
- The normal distribution
- Probabilities and estimation
- Correlation and regression
Paper 2B: Critical Path and Risk Analysis: Written Exam: 90 Minutes: 60 Marks
- Critical analysis of given data and models
- Critical path and risk analysis
- Expectation
- Cost benefit and analysis
Paper 2C: Graphical Techniques: Written Exam: 90 Minutes: 60 Marks
- Critical analysis of given data and models
- Graphical Methods
- Rates of Change
- Exponential Functions
Year 2 content:
Trips and other costs:
- Students are permitted to use a scientific or graphical calculator for the course and both exams; they can use their scientific calculator from GCSE Maths.
- There are two textbooks available for pupils studying the course, for those who choose to go ahead, we will inform them as to which one we will be using. These are detailed below…
- AQA Level 3 Mathematical Studies Student Book (AQA Core Maths) by Helen Ball and Peter Ransom
- AQA Mathematical Studies Student Book: Level 3 Certificate by Stan Dolan and June Haighton (Oxford University Press).
Career and further study:
Core Maths equips students with practical mathematical skills that are highly valued in higher education and the workplace. It complements a wide range of A-level subjects and supports progression into areas such as business, economics, psychology, geography, healthcare, social sciences, and STEM-related careers. For students not studying A-level Mathematics, it provides an excellent opportunity to continue developing essential quantitative skills while earning additional UCAS Tariff points.