Further Maths (Edexcel)
About this course
Further Maths dives deeper into complex problem solving while introducing new areas such as complex numbers and matrices. The two-year A level course builds on GCSE or equivalent Maths and Further Maths and should be taken in conjunction with two or three other A level subjects including Maths.
A level Further Maths offers flexibility and options to students intending to take further study:
- It broadens and deepens analytical and critical thinking skills taught in Maths.
- It develops your mathematical fluency while introducing more advanced concepts and theories, particularly in areas like mechanics, statistics, and pure mathematics. This enhances your decision-making skills and logical reasoning.
- An A level qualification in further maths is highly valued by prestigious universities that are looking to train the best computer scientists and engineers of the future
What you will study/learn
Edexcel A level further mathematics covers the following units:
- Matrices
- Complex numbers
- Further algebra, calculus and vectors
- Hyperbolic functions
- Differential equations
- Number theory
- Discrete probability distributions
- Chi squared tests
- Linear regression
Assessment:
The Edexcel A Level in Further Mathematics assessment comprises two compulsory papers and two additional optional papers Each paper is worth 25% of the assessment total.
- 1 Core Pure Mathematics Paper 1- a one and a half hour exam
- 2 Core Pure Mathematics Paper 2- a one and a half hour exam
- 3 Two of Further Pure Mathematics 1, Further Statistics 1, Further Mechanics 1, Decision Mathematics, Further Pure Mathematics 2, Further Statistics 2, Further Mechanics 2 or Decision Mathematics 2- each have one and a half hour exams
Entry requirements
Students applying for A Level programmes must have the equivalent of 4 GCSEs with a grade 5-8 (A-C grade) or better, or have taken A Levels previously, with unsatisfactory results, and level B2 English according to the CEFR for Languages; either IELTS 5.0 or better, or Cambridge FCE Grade C or above (this only applies to applicants whose first language is not English).
Students may also apply for A Level programmes if they have a satisfactory high school leaving certificate, or secondary school exit qualification, which is not equivalent to the A Level for UCAS purposes.
There are no prior learning or other requirements for Pearson Edexcel Further Maths. Students who would benefit most from studying this qualification are likely to have a Level 2 qualification such as a GCSE in Mathematics with a grade 6 (B/A grade) and above.
Awarding Body
Pearson Edexcel
Career Prospects and further study
The logical reasoning and analytical skills learned in Further Maths equip you for further study in science and technology and careers in finance, IT, operations, meteorology and cyber security.