Further Maths – A Level

Special Entry Requirements

In addition to the A Level entry requirements you will need a minimum of grade 8 in GCSE Maths

Subject Intent

Students will extend their mathematical knowledge beyond the A-level mathematics curriculum, develop reasoning and problem-solving skills and an appreciation for mathematical argument and proof. Students will learn to apply mathematical modelling techniques to real-life situations and develop appreciation for the value and limitations of doing so. They will develop independence and responsibility for their own learning, and evaluation of their own development and will further their interest and enjoyment in mathematics.

Course Introduction

Further Mathematics is a second A level in Maths. Students take Further Mathematics in addition to an A-level Mathematics course. It is an advantage, and for some Universities essential if you intend studying maths at university, and is well respected as a fourth A level indicating good study skills, dedication and an enquiring mind. You will be spending 9 hours in mathematics lessons each week, so a love of maths is essential!

Further Maths students have the opportunity to take part in the UKMT Senior Maths Challenge.

Preparing for Level 3 Further Maths

For a transition pack to help you prepare for the kind of work you will do for Further Maths in September see Maths A Level.

If you are looking for some fun additional maths activities to keep your brain active the UK Maths Trust have made past papers of the Senior Maths Challenge free to download (you normally have to buy them). Have a look below. The junior and intermediate challenges are also available if you have younger family members who are interested.

Ages 16 Above
The Senior Mathematical Challenge
90-minute, multiple-choice competition aimed at students across the UK in Sixth Form.

1998 – 2004 papers: https://www.ukmt.org.uk/product/119

2005 – 2009 papers: https://www.ukmt.org.uk/product/118

2010 – 2014 papers: https://www.ukmt.org.uk/product/115

All follow-on rounds, which include the Senior Kangaroo and Senior Olympiads are also available here: https://www.ukmt.org.uk/shop

All you will need to do is create an online account to gain access to the free resources, which will take no longer than a few minutes.

Course Modules

Throughout the course you will study the following:

Year 1

In the first year you will study topics in pure mathematics such as proof, complex numbers, matrices, algebra and functions, calculus and vectors as well as applied maths options involving further study in mechanics and statistics.

Year 2

In the second year you will advance your pure mathematics studies with topics in complex numbers, further algebra and functions, further calculus, polar coordinates, hyperbolic functions and differential equations alongside applied mathematics studies including centres of mass, circular motion, hypothesis testing and confidence intervals.