Core Mathematics
Examination Board: AQA Level 3 Certificate
Core Mathematics is a practical and engaging post-GCSE Level 3 qualification designed for students who’ve achieved a grade 5 or above in GCSE Maths but don’t wish to take on the full A-Level course. Equivalent in size and UCAS points to an AS Level, Core Maths focuses on real-world applications of mathematics, developing valuable skills in areas such as finance, statistics, and risk management. It’s particularly useful for students studying A-Levels in subjects like sciences, social sciences, and geography, offering a “maths for life” approach that helps address the growing demand for numeracy skills across the economy. At Guiseley, we offer the AQA Level 3 Certificate in Mathematical Studies, giving students a strong foundation in applied maths that’s both relevant and highly regarded.
Students studying Core Maths will obtain a level 3 certificate in Mathematical Studies using the AQA exam board. The Core Maths course offers a broad and practical approach to mathematics, focusing on real-world problem solving and data interpretation. Throughout the qualification, students will develop the ability to interpret mathematical solutions in context, assess the reliability of data, and identify sources of error or bias. Key areas of study include understanding risk and probability, statistical variation, and the use of exponential functions to model growth and decay. Students will also explore financial mathematics, percentage change, and the interpretation of graphs—skills essential for everyday decision-making. Importantly, the course emphasises the critical evaluation of assumptions and models, along with a clear understanding that correlation does not imply causation.
Studying Core Maths helps students develop their problem-solving skills and prepares them for the maths they will encounter in their day-to-day life. The qualification provides valuable preparation for the quantitative skills they will need for many apprenticeships and degree courses, particularly subjects such as psychology, geography, business-related courses, sports and social sciences, and natural science courses that do not require AS/A Mathematics. Whilst your main area of speciality will not be maths, Core Maths can support a wide range of careers where problem solving and numeracy are necessary skills, including design, management and manufacturing.