Mathematics

A Level / 2 year Course / Edexcel

The course comprises two thirds pure mathematics and one third applied mathematics. The topics in pure mathematics are a mixture of the familiar and unfamiliar. There is plenty of algebra including quadratic and simultaneous equations together with trigonometry, coordinate geometry and graphs. Applied mathematics is made up of mechanics and statistics.

More on this course

What does ‘Mathematics’ mean to you? Is it the study of patterns? Or is it a way of making new relationships between ideas such as graphs and algebra? Do you see mathematics as a human activity that forms part of our culture? Perhaps it is a way of illuminating the relationships we see in the world around us.

Familiar topics such as algebra and functions, and co-ordinate geometry are studied alongside new topics including logarithms, a wider view of trigonometry, and differentiation and integration together known as calculus. We add new topics such as numerical methods and an extension of vectors which you may be familiar with from GCSE.

Alongside these areas of pure mathematics you will study:

Mechanics: The mathematics used to study the physical world, modelling motion of objects and the forces acting on them. This includes Newton’s First, Second and Third Laws.
Statistics: This involves data presentation and probability, both of which follow on from topics at GCSE. This leads to the study of statistical distributions with special properties such as the normal distribution.

Teaching and learning methods

Students will be taught by specialist teachers and experience a wide variety of lesson activities such as investigation, group tasks and individual study. Students are expected to complete frequent wider study tasks and are assessed on a regular basis.

Assessment

The course is assessed by three external exams at the end of Year 13.

Skills and Careers Insight

A Level Mathematics builds strong problem-solving, analytical, and logical thinking skills that are essential in a wide range of fields. You'll learn advanced algebra, calculus, and statistics, which help develop precision and attention to detail. These skills are in high demand across many careers, including engineering, finance, data science, economics, architecture, and teaching. Whether you aspire to be an actuary, software developer, or civil engineer, A Level Mathematics provides a solid foundation for a successful career in any field that requires quantitative reasoning and critical thinking.

Subject Combination

A Level Mathematics works well alongside subjects that have some degree of mathematical content such as the sciences, accounting, computer science, geography and psychology.

Business

Chemistry

Biology

Computer Science

Geography

Psychology

Accounting

Student Testimonials

What do our students think about studying here?

As someone who would like to study a maths-based degree at university these courses were key choices for my progression route. Not only does it link to degrees within mathematics and statistics, it also links with the STEM subjects through calculations as well as the humanities and social sciences, accounting, geography, business, economics and more through quantitative data analysis and interpretation. Mathematics is often a recommended qualification on many HE degrees. Mathematics is an interesting but challenging course.

Kaitlyn Sleeman

Former DSFC Student from Hetton Academy

I enjoy mathematics because it requires a structured way of thinking as well as constantly pushing me to my fullest potential. It is a facilitating subject which links to biology, enabling me to develop valuable problem solving skills which apply to a variety of situations.

Zoe Blanchard

Former DSFC Student from St Bedes Peterlee

Mathematics is a very challenging but interesting subject. The teaching for this subject has allowed me to develop confidence and find interest in learning new concepts. Studying mathematics and further mathematics at Durham Sixth Form Centre has allowed me to push myself and experience challenges that I felt I didn’t always get in secondary school.

Amy Armstrong

Former DSFC Student from North Durham Academy

I love maths – it has always been my favourite subject, and at Durham Sixth Form Centre I can develop my passion for mathematics.

Grace Hocking

Former DSFC Student from North Durham Academy

I love mathematics at Durham Sixth Form Centre. I want to continue to study mathematics at University and through the support of the Progression Team, I have managed to secure four offers to study an undergraduate mathematics degree.

Nikkitta Hauxwell

Former DSFC Student from Parkside Academy

I think the best thing about Durham Sixth Form Centre is the fact that it’s a mature environment and it gives you the independence you need.

Sam Henig

Previous school - Wellfield School