Mathematics & Further Maths
OVERVIEW
The most popular of our A-level subjects, mathematics is a gateway to understanding the world, solving meaningful problems, and developing skills that empower students.
A-level mathematics pupils will be exposed to some of the most powerful mathematical tools ever created. Calculus, the mathematical study of continuous change, which underpins everything from meteorology to the rise and fall of the stock markets; statistics, in which pupils develop the skills required to interpret information and prepare themselves for a world of ‘big data’; mechanics, in which pupils engage with the mathematics governing the laws of Newtonian physics and the motion of objects in our physical world. These topics, along with many more, will be covered with a rigour and level of detail that far outstrips what pupils have met at GCSE/IGCSE. Mathematics pupils at King’s can expect to be stretched, to be challenged, to work exceptionally hard and to leave at the end of Upper Sixth with a greater understanding of how the world around them works.
The Sixth Form mathematics society, the Jacobians, is open to all A-level mathematics pupils. We meet every half term and discuss topics beyond the reaches of the syllabus. Recent talks have included ‘The Language of Mathematics,’ a look at different number bases and their possible pros and cons for society; ‘The Art of the Infinite,’ in which we discussed the concept of infinity and the notion of cardinality; and ‘Mathematics B.C. (before calculators),’ in which pupils gained hands-on experience of a slide rule.
There is also the Sixth Form mathematics club, open to all, but aimed predominantly at those looking to study the subject at university. We also run a specialist course preparing any pupils who might be required to sit the MAT test, which is an admissions test used by institutions such as Oxford University for their undergraduate mathematics courses.
Further mathematics is a subject for enthusiasts who will find the basic A-level relatively straightforward. Since the inception of the National Network giving access to further mathematics for all pupils, most of the leading universities are now demanding further mathematics at some level for those wanting to study mathematics or mathematics-related degrees.
OUR SYLLABUS
Sixth Form students can study A-level Mathematics (Edexcel), A-level Further Mathematics (Edexcel), and Core Maths (OCR, MEI B). A-level Mathematics involves three examinations (all calculator), of which two-thirds Pure Mathematics, one-third Applied (Statistics and Mechanics
A-level Further Mathematics: Four examinations (all calculator): two Core Pure papers, one Further Statistics, and one Further Mechanics paper. Results in the department are excellent, with 100% of Further Mathematics students achieving A* in June 2024.
Math Clinics run with a teacher to support learning outside of the classroom.
WHY STUDY MATHAMATICS
Mathematics is more than numbers and equations—it is a gateway to understanding the world, solving meaningful problems, and developing skills that empower students. It opens doors to exciting and lucrative fields, giving a competitive edge in university applications and beyond. Mastering challenging concepts fosters a sense of accomplishment, while collaborative problem-solving builds a strong sense of community and shared achievement.
We run a Sixth Form mathematics society, known as the Jacobians. It provides opportunities for students to explore mathematical concepts beyond the standard curriculum. Meetings are held every half term and have covered diverse topics such as different number bases, the concept of infinity, and historical mathematical tools like the slide rule. Students also have an opportunity to explore/research an area of maths they are interested in and present it to their peers.
For those aiming to pursue mathematics or related degrees at the university level, King’s College offers specialised support. The school runs drop-ins to prepare students for the Mathematics Admissions Test (MAT), an entrance exam used by institutions like Oxford University.
- Critical thinking, resilience, and perseverance
- Attention to detail and time management
- Ability to communicate complex ideas clearly
- Confidence in decision-making
- Core Maths Level 3 enhances mathematical reasoning in real-world contexts and provides valuable transferable skills.
Annie O’Neill – Studied Computer Science at Cambridge
Toby Vickers – Studied Mathematics at Oxford
Rudi Smith – Studied Mathematics at Oxford
Sian Dennett – Studied Mathematics at Oxford
