Core Mathematics

***** UPDATE FOR SEPTEMBER 2026 ENTRY *****

Thank you for your interest in our sixth form. We are no longer accepting applications. If you would like to be considered for a course in September, please take the following steps:

Current Sittingbourne School Students please speak to a member of the Sixth Form Team when you come to pick up your GCSE results on Thursday 20th August.

Students from other schools please bring us a paper copy of your results sheet on Friday 21st August 2026 between 10am and 12pm. Unfortunately we cannot accept a photograph of your results. Please come to the main school reception at Swanstree Avenue, Sittingbourne, Kent ME10 4NL.

Applications Open: Monday 3rd November 2025

Applications Close: Friday 17th July 2026

Entry Requirements: Our general entry requirements are:-

• A Levels – advanced courses, two year study programme, with an average entry requirement of at least five grade 5+ qualifications, including English and mathematics. Some subjects may have additional entry requirements.

• BTEC Level 3 – advanced courses, two year study programme, with an average entry requirement of at least five grade 4+ qualifications, including English and mathematics. Some subjects may have additional entry requirements.

• T Level - technical course, two year study programme, with an average entry requirement of at least five grade 5+ qualifications, including English and mathematics.

• BTEC Level 2 – One year programme, which could lead on to further studies, with an average entry requirement at least five grade 2 or above, including English and mathematics.

How to Apply: Please apply via Kent Choices

If applying to T Level Engineering, please include a second choice set of subjects within the same application.

Core Mathematics is intended for students who have passed GCSE mathematics at grade 5 or better, but who have not chosen to study A level mathematics. This Level 3 Certificate in Mathematical Studies will consolidate students’ mathematical understanding, build their confidence and competence in applying mathematical techniques to solve a range of problems and introduce them to new techniques and concepts that will prepare them for further study and future employment within a broad range of academic, professional and technical fields.

This is a one year course that is heavily focussed on problem solving skills with the aim of preparing students for the mathematical demands of other subjects. This course is generally taken as a bolt on qualification to other A levels being studied.

The use of technology, in particular spreadsheets, is an integral part of this qualification. Some of the content that is expected to be studied in this qualification is listed below.

- Mathematical modelling, costing and risk analysis

- Analysis of data for personal finance

- Critical path analysis

- Critical analysis of given data and models

- Rates of change and exponential functions

- Working with gradients and equations of straight lines.

This Level 3 Certificate is a linear qualification with 100% external assessment comprising of two written examination papers.

In addition to the general requirements for access onto A Level courses, students would need a grade 5 in mathematics GCSE and at least five GCSEs at grade 9 – 4.

Studying core mathematics opens up a variety of progression and career opportunities, particularly in sectors where mathematical thinking and problem-solving skills are valued. Core mathematics is a qualification designed to help develop practical mathematical skills, which can lead students to higher education pathways and open doors to vocational and apprenticeship opportunities. Core mathematics is less advanced than A level mathematics but still valuable for students who want to enhance their quantitative skills without pursuing higher level mathematics.