Is the jump from GCSE to A level maths hard?
There is certainly a jump in difficulty, particularly because A level maths assumes you are strong at all of GCSE maths.
However, if you spend some time over the summer before year 12 doing preparation work, and be ready to work hard in September, there is no reason you can't do well.
Is there any extra help outside of lessons?
Yes, we run maths tutorials for drop-in extra help; we also have a mentoring programme for those who need more regular 1-1 support
Do I need to buy a new calculator for A level maths?
Yes, your GCSE scientific calculator will not be adequate as it lacks certain functions that the exam requires. We recommend you get the Casio FX-991CW Classwiz as this will be what most students have. We have a calculator emulator that we can display on our screens to guide you through how to use it (and it will look like the Casio FX-991CW Classwiz).
Do I need a graphical calculator?
Graphical calculators can be expensive. Some students do like to have them, but the course does not require them, even further maths. There are no questions you can do on the graphical calculator that you can’t do on the normal calculator and only very occasionally is it more useful (some graph sketching).
If you do want to get one, maybe look at the Casio fx-CG50.
What support is available for students who wish to take maths (or a related subject) at university?
In lower sixth there are weekly sessions for students who are interested in maths beyond sixth form where we teach how to approach entrance exam style questions, particularly focusing on the Oxbridge STEP/MAT examinations. We continue this support into upper sixth, as well as offering rigorous interview practice for our students.
How will we be assessed in our first year if there is no AS level?
There will be a diagnostic test usually in the fourth week of your first term. This assesses everything taught up to that point. There is an end of year assessment which strongly influences your UCAS prediction. There are also two other big assessments throughout year 1.
What kind of careers can you do with maths?
Maths is useful for a range of careers including in science, engineering, computing, finance and economics. But mathematicians are often sought after in other careers too because they are good at problem-solving and are systematic and logical. Lots of government ministers, headteachers, and all sorts of people have maths degrees.
Should I do maths if I want to go to medical school?
You do not need maths: biology and chemistry are the essential choices. You can choose maths as your third but only if you are good at it and enjoy it.