Core Mathematics AS Level

NEW Applications for September 2027

Applications Open - Monday 2nd November 2026

Applications Close - Monday 5th April 2026 at 5pm

Entry Requirements - A minimum of six separately identifiable GCSE subjects at grade 6 or above OR an average of grade 6 in the best six GCSE subjects achieved

At least a grade 5 in both English and Mathematics For most subjects at A Level, a grade 6 in the subject at GCSE is required. However, for A Level Mathematics a grade 7 is required, and for Further Mathematics a grade 8 is necessary

How to Apply - Applications can be made through Kent Choices

Please contact us directly if you have any questions - contact sixthformrecruitment@nks.kent.sch.uk

Open Evening

Thursday 14th January 2027: 6pm - 8pm

Presentations at 6:30pm & 7:30pm

No booking necessary.

Open Mornings - Please visit our school website to book a slot for the open mornings www.nks.kent.sch.uk

Thursday 19th November 2026 9am - 12pm

Thursday 10th December 2026 9am -12pm

Please visit our website for information on consultation meeting if you would like to visit the school and talk to a member of the Sixth Form Team - https://www.nks.kent.sch.uk/page/?title=Sixth+Form+Admissions&pid=33

This course runs for one year and has the same UCAS points as an AS Level qualification. The Core Maths qualification supports a wide range of Level 3 study areas. This includes, and is not limited to:

• Biology
• Business Studies
• Geography
• Psychology
• Sociology
• Sports Science and PE

This course focusses on real-world application of mathematics, partially with statistics representations. The lessons focus on context- based problem-solving tasks, which support mathematical and critical thinking skills. Students will also build on their communication skills whether that is mathematically, verbally or written.

Students will explore a wide range of study areas including:

• Application of statistics
• Probability
• Linear programming
• Sequences and growth

Exam format:

The final examinations is entirely exam-based at the end of the one year course.

Paper 1: Comprehension 40% of the qualification

Paper 2: Applications 60% of the qualification

GCSE Grade 5 in mathematics (must have taken the higher tier paper)

Core maths is an excellent choice for students to study alongside their other A Level choices especially those with a Maths component such as Psychology, Business, Economics and Geography amongst others.