Skip to Main Content

Core Maths Certificate

Core Maths – Certificate in Mathematical Studies Level 3

The core maths qualification is for students who have passed GCSE Mathematics at grade 4 or above but have decided not to study A Level mathematics or statistics.

The qualification strengthens students’ existing skills and focuses on applying mathematics to solve problems relevant to everyday life. It is about students doing meaningful mathematical problems to increase their confidence in using mathematics to be better equipped for the mathematical demands of other courses, higher education and employment.

Core Maths builds on GCSE mathematics, with a sharper focus on problem-solving skills. Students will consider and tackle mathematics in meaningful contexts, including through financial applications and statistical ideas that can support work in other subjects. It helps to develop students’ mathematical skills and thinking and supports courses such as A-level Psychology, Biology, Geology, Economics, Environmental Science, Sports Science and Geography as well as technical and vocational qualifications.

The qualification is equivalent to an AS Level in terms of UCAS points and is increasingly welcomed by universities. Many roles in the workplace require high levels of budget management and problem-solving skills and Core Maths will be a useful tool in equipping you with these skills.

Qualifications & Assessments

Exam Board OCR
Level Level 3
Qualification Certifcate
Assessment Method Examination
Entry Requirements Entry Requirements

The course is designed for students who require some mathematical literacy in their other subjects but do not wish to study an A level in mathematics or statistics. It is recognised by universities for courses which require a mathematics qualification beyond GCSE but do not require a full A level.

Core maths will be taught for two lessons per week over one year. At the end of the year, students will sit two written examinations, each 2 hours long. This will be additional to your three main subjects.

Many university courses will require a qualification in Mathematics. Typically Physics, Engineering and Chemistry but often Computer Science and Economics too. If students already have a firm idea of what they want to study at university, then it is a good idea to check entry requirements before making final subject choices.

The breadth of mathematical applications is immense. It underpins most of science, technology and engineering and is also important in areas as diverse as business, law, nutrition, sports science and psychology.

There are many opportunities to use mathematics to make a difference in society, for example through the analysis involved in medical research, developing new technology, modelling epidemics or in the study of patterns of criminal activity to identify trends.

  • We run several trips for students which may include:-
    • UKMT Senior Maths Challenge
    • Maths Inspiration Lecture
    • Maths Fest
    • Dame Kathleen Ollerenshaw Lecture
    • Making Maths at Manchester
    • Problem Solving Course
    • Trip abroad

Related Courses

Biology

Biology involves the study of a wide range of exciting topics, ranging from molecular biology to the study of ecosystems and from micro-organisms to mammoths. Biology is never far from[...]

Photograph of a biology student with books and some plants.

Business

Business studies students study a variety of topics related to strategy and decision making. One day you may be a manager in a business related to your chosen subject area[...]

Photograph of a business student

Chemistry

Chemistry is a linear A level course that requires, and develops, a variety of skills from mathematical calculations and problem solving to analysis and practical skills.

Photograph of chemistry students performing an experiment

Computer Science

Computers and technology are at the heart of almost everything we do. Entertainment, business, transport and education all rely on computers.

Photograph of a Computer Science student creating a program

Economics

Economics is concerned with the activities of different groups such as consumers, businesses and governments. It examines issues which are increasingly dealt with in the media such as debt, recession,[...]

Photograph of an Economics student studying

Environmental Science

This course provides an ideal base for employment, for example, ecology and wildlife conservation, land management, town planning, architecture, forestry, geology or climatology. Students could work for a charity like[...]

Photograph of Environmental Science student studying.

Geography

Geography has modules in physical and human geography. Students develop skills in mathematics, analysis and extended writing. Practical work within the specification is one of the attractions of Geography and[...]

Photograph of a student studying Geography next to a globe

Geology

The WJEC-Eduqas A Level in Geology is a linear course with a final exam at the end of two years. It provides a comprehensive coverage of the knowledge and understanding[...]

Photograph of a student revising for a Geology exam

Psychology

The Psychology course is an investigation into mind and behaviour. The course assumes no prior knowledge of the subject and will appeal to anyone who is interested in understanding and[...]

Photograph of a Psychology student studying

Physics

The Advancing Physics course shows how Physics is exciting, always developing, of great practical use in many ways and in many careers, as well as probing some of the deepest[...]

Photograph of a physics student stood in front of a whiteboard.
News & Blog

Latest From Aquinas

We are proud to announce the launch of our brand-new website! This platform marks an exciting step forward in our commitment to innovation and excellence. Designed to support academic success and enhance the student experience, our new website serves as a central hub for information, events, news, and resources related to life at Aquinas College.

Screenshot of the new website

I am thrilled for Aquinas students who have produced another outstanding set of results. Over 58% of A level results have been at the highest grades of A*, A or B, with a 99% pass rate. In addition, 70% of Vocational grades were at Distinction* or Distinction grades with a 100% pass rate. These amazing […]

Aquinas students celebrate their A level results

On Wednesday 19th June the media department took a group of students to visit the excellent facilities at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLAN)’s Media Factory. The students were given a tour of the facilities including a state of the art fully functioning TV studio.

Photograph of inside the Media Factory's TV studio control room.

You can never rely on the British weather, from pouring down rain, to beautiful blue sky, our L6 successfully completed their Duke of Edinburgh Gold practice expedition. What an amazing, all be it, wet, experience they had. Their resilience shown to keep going, support each other and work as a team to finish what was […]

Photoshop of students walking up a hill