Mathematical Studies (Core Maths) Level 3

Applications Open: - 3rd November 2025

Applications Close: - We would, ideally, like applications to be submitted by Thursday 8th January 2026, when planning for the timetable will begin, but applications will be accepted after this date

How to Apply: - Please apply via KentChoices

Minimum Entry Requirements

The admissions criteria for the Sixth Form are as follows:

- A minimum of 6 separately identifiable GCSE subjects (or equivalent) at an average grade of 5.5 or above

- These 6 subjects must include at least a grade 4 in English Language or English Literature and at least a grade 4 in Mathematics

- You will require a grade 6 or above in most subjects you wish to study at A Level

- To study Mathematics, Modern Foreign Languages or a Science subject you will require a grade 7

- To study Economics a grade 7 or above in Mathematics is required and a 6+ or above in Business or a related subject

- Students may be able to study a Science subject with a 6 grade but their 4th option choice must be STEM Access forming part of your Personal Enrichment Pathway

- For Further Mathematics you will need an 8 or 9

- Short Courses count as half a GCSE

- A positive attitude in your chosen subjects and a respect for school aims, objectives and ethos

- Commitment to the expectations of the Sixth Form and the school community

- Students will not be admitted if they have not completed the appropriate paperwork

Core Maths is a Level 3 qualification for students who want to continue developing their maths skills without taking full A-Level Mathematics. The course focuses on practical, applied topics such as financial maths, data analysis, statistics and real-world problem-solving. Lessons involve interpreting information and using mathematical reasoning in everyday contexts. Students should have enjoyed GCSE Maths and be keen to apply maths to real situations, with a commitment to consistent classwork and independent study.

Core Maths is valued by universities and employers for strengthening essential quantitative skills, particularly for subjects like Psychology, Business, Geography and the Sciences.

WHY STUDY MATHS IN CONTEXT?

Core Maths is highly valued because it develops practical mathematical skills needed for everyday life, further study and many careers. It helps students handle numbers confidently, interpret data and solve real-world problems. The course supports subjects with numerical or statistical content—such as Psychology, Business, Geography, Economics and the Sciences—and is recognised by universities and employers for strengthening critical thinking and quantitative reasoning.

The course builds on key ideas from GCSE Mathematics, strengthening confidence with number work, proportional reasoning, percentages, graphs and interpreting data. A strong emphasis on applied problem- solving, particularly in areas such as personal finance, budgeting, taxation, mortgages, risk, estimation and the analysis of real datasets. Students also learn to use statistical techniques—including averages, spread, correlation and the Normal distribution—to interpret information critically and make informed conclusions.

Throughout the course, students apply these mathematical methods to genuine contexts from business, science, social sciences and everyday life. The qualification is designed to help learners use mathematics confidently and responsibly, preparing them for further study or employment where quantitative skills are essential.

Assessment is through written exams

Minimum Entry Requirements

The admissions criteria for the Sixth Form are as follows:

- A minimum of 6 separately identifiable GCSE subjects (or equivalent) at an average grade of 5.5 or above

- At least a grade 4 in English Language or English Literature and a grade 4 in Mathematics

- Meet the entry requirements for at least 3 full A Level / vocational subjects. Each subject has its own specific entry criteria. These can be found on the individual subject pages. For this subject you require Grade 5 in Mathematics GCSE

- Students may be able to study a Science subject with a 6 grade but their 4th option choice must be STEM Access forming part of your Personal Enrichment Pathway.

- Short Courses count as half a GCSE