Mathematics
Level 2 – GCSE or functional skills
One-year (alongside your full-time programme )
Mathematics is used in a variety of areas you might be considering for study, such as computing, engineering, design and technology, physics, business and philosophy. This course is ideal if you want to improve your original grade in mathematics whilst starting your college course.
Required qualifications
If you have a grade D at GCSE you will be entered for either the higher or foundation tier depending on your progress throughout the year. If you have a grade E or below at GCSE you will undertake a one year mathematics course leading to a qualification in adult numeracy. Provided you make suitable progress on this course you will be able to move on to GCSE mathematics the following year.
What will I study?
The GCSE course focuses on:
- algebra (not in functional skills)
- shape, space and measures
- handling data and statistics
- numbers work.
The functional mathematics course focuses on:
- application of maths in real life situations including statistics, space, shape and measure, and number work.
Method of assessment
You will be assessed by 100% examination.
Other information
For GCSE the higher tier allows you to achieve a grade C or above. The foundation tier has a maximum grade of a C. This is an intensive course so you will need to work hard throughout the year and meet all deadlines for coursework. As there is a lot of competition for places we expect a high level of attendance and you will therefore be asked to sign a GCSE learning contract at the beginning of the year.
A pass in functional skills mathematics is equivalent to a C at GCSE mathematics.