Core Maths

What is Core Maths?

Core Maths is a Level 3 Certificate that will prepare you for the varied contexts you are likely to encounter in vocational and academic study and in future employment and life, for example, financial modelling and analysis of data trends.

You will study a breadth of mathematics content quite different to that at GCSE. We study a blend of financial calculations, such as payslip deductions and repaying mortgages, in addition to data analysis and Fermi Estimation. Further content is split across two strands (Statistical Techniques or Graphical Techniques), which means the course will be tailored to better suit the programme of study you have chosen at Newman.

Core Maths has been designed to maintain and develop real-life mathematical skills. What you will study will not be purely theoretical or abstract; it can be applied on a day-to-day basis, whether at work, study, or home.

What Will You Study on Core Maths?

AS-Level Core Maths helps you apply mathematical thinking to real-life situations you’re likely to face in study, work and everyday life. From interpreting data to managing finances, the course is designed to keep maths relevant and practical.

You’ll explore topics such as:

Financial calculations – including payslip deductions, tax, loans and mortgages
Data analysis – making sense of graphs, charts and real-world statistics
Fermi Estimation – developing logical estimates for large-scale problems

The course also includes two specialist strands:

Statistical Techniques
Graphical Techniques

These are chosen to align with the subjects you’re studying at Newman, helping you see the link between maths and your wider programme.

The Core Maths AS-Level is ideal for students who want to strengthen their maths skills without taking a full A-Level in Maths. It’s all about useful, real-world maths that you can apply beyond the classroom.

What Next after Studying Core Maths?

Core Maths is a Level 3 qualification worth the same number of UCAS points as an AS-Level. It can strengthen your university application and show that you’re confident working with numbers beyond GCSE level.

Universities and employers value this qualification because it shows you can:

Work with data and numbers in real-world contexts
Think logically and solve problems
Apply mathematical skills across different subject areas

AS-Level Core Maths is especially useful if you plan to study subjects with a statistical or numerical focus, such as:

Psychology
Business
Health and Social Care
Geography
Sciences

It’s also well regarded for careers in professional, technical, or creative industries where confident, practical use of maths is an advantage.

What Exam Board for this subject?

AS-Level Core Maths is assessed by AQA, a leading exam board known for its clear and accessible course structure.

What is the Entry Criteria?

You’ll need five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including at least a grade 5 in GCSE Maths to enrol onto this course.

What Enrichment is on offer in this subject?

We offer a variety of opportunities to engage in learning and experiences beyond the specification. For example, many of our students enjoy the lectures and talks offered by the Institute of Mathematics. Furthermore, the AMSP offer our students a variety of online activities to participate in.

What other subjects go well with this subject?

Core Maths is cross-curricular by nature and so blends excellently with any other subjects. Primarily, our students find valuable links across the social sciences, sciences and financial subjects that college offers.

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