Mathematics
A Level Mathematics is designed for students who have enjoyed GCSE Mathematics, especially algebra, and who have strong problem‑solving skills.
The course develops analytical thinking and mathematical understanding, preparing you for a wide range of progression opportunities.
- Qualification
- A Level
- Duration
- 2 years
Why study Mathematics at St Brendan’s?
Studying Mathematics helps you develop logical thinking and problem‑solving skills that are highly valued by universities and employers.
It supports progression into a wide range of academic and career pathways, especially engineering, physics and computer science.
Entry requirements
- 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above
- GCSE English Language at grade 4
- GCSE Maths at grade 7
- (or grade 6 plus a pass in an entry test)
Course examination breakdown
What else do I need to know?
5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above
GCSE English Language at grade 4
GCSE Maths at grade 7
(or grade 6 plus a pass in an entry test)
The course combines three key areas:
- Pure mathematics
- Proof
- Algebra and functions
- Coordinate geometry
- Sequences and series
- Trigonometry
- Exponentials and logarithms
- Differentiation and integration
- Numerical methods
- Vectors
- Statistics
- Statistical sampling
- Data presentation and interpretation
- Probability
- Statistical distributions
- Hypothesis testing
- Mechanics
- Quantities and units
- Kinematics
- Forces and Newton’s laws
- Moments
Skills Developed
- Problem‑solving and analytical thinking
- Logical reasoning
- Mathematical modelling
- Data interpretation
Students learn through:
- Structured lessons led by experienced teachers
- Practice and application of mathematical concepts
- Independent study and regular problem‑solving
Assessment is through examinations at the end of the course, covering pure mathematics, statistics and mechanics.
Students are supported with:
- Access to online textbooks (full suite available)
- Option to purchase printed textbooks
- College library resources
- Online mathematical resources
Students are also required to have:
An advanced scientific calculator capable of summary statistics
£8 fee for access to the full suite of online textbooks
Optional purchase of printed textbooks (approximately £75)
Scientific calculator (around £25–£30)
Optional graphical calculator (not required)
Financial assistance may be available through the College bursary scheme.
A Level Mathematics can be combined with a wide range of other subjects.
You can take A level Maths with A level Statistics but note that some of the top universities may consider these subjects to overlap each other and may prioritise students with a broader selection of courses.
A Level Mathematics supports progression into:
- University courses in mathematics, science, computer science, engineering and related fields
- Careers requiring analytical, numerical and problem‑solving skills
Students have opportunities to extend their mathematical understanding beyond the classroom, including:
- Participation in the Senior Maths Challenge
- Engaging in additional problem‑solving and extension activities
- STEM activities and support sessions
- Talks and sessions from guest speakers
- Trips to universities and Inspiration events in Bristol
These opportunities help students develop deeper subject knowledge and apply mathematical thinking in new contexts.
Progression opportunities
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