Page 38 - Sixth Form Courses 2026-2028

A LEVEL
MATHEMATICS

OVERVIEW At this level, mathematics moves away from the outcome focused approach taken
in GCSE courses. Students studying Mathematics in the Sixth Form question why
and how things work and develop their understanding of the fundamental
concepts to a deeper level. Learning mathematics is not just about memorising
techniques and formulae, it teaches you the logical analysis and thinking skills
needed for many future career paths. Mathematics is a useful and well-respected
A level. However, the main reason to choose Mathematics in the Sixth Form is
because you enjoy the subject.
The themes covered are similar to GCSE – Algebra, Graphs, Geometry – but the
style is different. You are encouraged to start viewing these concepts from the
inside rather than as a spectator, and you must be prepared to train yourself to
think carefully, logically and independently.

APPROACH If you embark on this course you need to be well motivated; to be successful it is
important that material covered in classes is backed up with independent study.
A variety of teaching styles are adopted including practical activities, use of iPads
and calculators, and independent research. There is no coursework; qualifications
are awarded based on the results of external exams taken at the end of the Upper
Sixth. Many students will be entered in the UKMT Senior Maths Challenge and all
will have opportunities to prepare and attend presentations in our lecture series ‘Pi
Shop’.

COURSE OUTLINE A level Mathematics is broken down into three main subject areas: Pure,
Mechanics and Statistics; links will, however, be made between each of these and
the skills developed are transferable across all areas of the curriculum. Pure
Mathematics makes up two thirds of the qualification and consists of topics such
as Algebra, Trigonometry and Calculus. Mechanics and Statistics are equally
represented in the course. Students are required to purchase a graphics calculator
(Casio fx-CG100).

FURTHER INFORMATION A level Mathematics is a necessary or preferred qualification for many degree
courses in a variety of subject areas. The skills learnt will be useful for those
wishing to study sciences, medicine, architecture, economics and essential for
those considering courses in mathematics, statistics or engineering. Mathematics
at A level is considered a ‘facilitating subject’ by the Russell Group of universities,
and is a good companion subject for the sciences and economics.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Grade 7 (A) in IGCSE Mathematics or the equivalent is essential, although a higher
grade is strongly recommended. A strong understanding and fluency in algebraic
skills is necessary to access this course.

EXAM BOARD AND H240
SPECIFICATION www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as-and-a-level/mathematics-a-h230-h240-
from-2017/

CONTACT Head of Mathematics
Dr C Fiddes
fiddes.c@millfieldschool.com

MILLFIELD SIXTH FORM 2026-2028 36