A-Level Further Mathematics

At BUCHS, we have an extremely well-qualified Mathematics Department with teachers who are experienced at delivering the Further Mathematics A level and who achieve excellent outcomes for their students.

Further Mathematics A Level is hugely rewarding and held in very high esteem by universities and employers. It is designed for students who have a genuine passion for Mathematics and want to discover more about the subject but who also thrive on challenge. Further Mathematics broadens students’ mathematical skills and promotes deeper mathematical thinking and understanding.

Entry Requirements: Grade 8 or above in Mathematics GCSE 

Awarding Body and Papers: Edexcel 

Paper 1: Core Pure Mathematics 1 (Paper code: 9FM0/01)

Paper 2: Core Pure Mathematics 2 (Paper code: 9FM0/02)

Paper 3: Further Statistics 1 (Paper code: 9FM0/3B)

Paper 4: Decision 1 (Paper code: 9FM0/3D)

Each paper is: 1-hour 30 minutes written examination:  25% of the qualification.

Programme of Study

In the Further Mathematics A-level, students study two compulsory modules; Core Pure 1 and Core Pure 2 along-side Further Statistics 1 and Decision 1.  During this course, you will extend the content you cover in Pure Mathematics and Statistics, as well as having the opportunity to explore new and fascinating areas of mathematics. 

The Core Pure modules of the Edexcel A-level Further Mathematics course build on the skills developed in A-level Mathematics and explore more advanced mathematical ideas. Students study topics such as complex numbers, matrices, further algebra and functions, advanced calculus, polar coordinates, hyperbolic functions and differential equations. They also develop their understanding of mathematical proof and learn to apply sophisticated techniques to solve challenging problems. These topics provide an excellent foundation for university courses in Mathematics, Physics, Engineering and Computer Science.

The Statistics 1 modules develop students’ ability to analyse data, model uncertainty and use probability to make informed decisions. The module also allows students to develop the skills of evaluating the reliability of the answers their model generates. Students explore more advanced probability distributions, including the Poisson and normal distributions, and learn how to use statistical methods to investigate real-world situations. Topics include hypothesis testing, Chi squared test and probability generating functions. These skills are particularly useful for careers involving data analysis, finance, economics, scientific research and other fields where interpreting data and making evidence-based decisions are important.

The Decision 1 modules focus on using mathematical techniques to solve practical problems involving organisation, planning and optimisation. Students study algorithms, network diagrams, shortest paths, minimum spanning trees, the travelling salesperson problem and critical path analysis. They learn how to represent complex problems mathematically, identify efficient solutions and evaluate different approaches. These skills are valuable in areas such as computer science, logistics, project management, business planning and operations research, where finding the most efficient way to complete tasks or allocate resources is essential.

It is a requirement of Further Mathematics that you also take Mathematics.  

What can it lead to:

A Level Further Mathematics can open the door to a wide range of exciting careers, particularly those involving problem-solving, logical thinking and advanced mathematical skills. These include careers in engineering, computer science, data science, artificial intelligence, actuarial science, finance, economics, research and teaching. It is especially valuable for students considering highly mathematical university degrees, such as Mathematics, Physics, Engineering or Computer Science, and is often a preferred or recommended subject for competitive university courses. Even for careers where Further Mathematics is not essential, it develops valuable analytical skills that are highly sought after by employers across many industries.