Skip to Main Content

Statistics

Using and understanding data is becoming increasingly important in many areas of study and employment. Understanding of statistics is a crucial skill, and this A Level aims to give students the tools needed to help them prepare for higher education and the workplace. Statistics might appeal to students wishing to pursue the study of a numerate post-16 subject within the Science and Social Sciences.

It sits well with subjects such as A level Maths, Biology, Psychology, Geography, Environmental Science, Computer Science, Business Studies and Economics. It is also an ideal third A level for aspiring medical students. The emphasis is on using and applying statistics in real world situations. It will also appeal to students who enjoyed the statistics and probability components of GCSE Maths but found the algebra demanding.

Students will require a graphical calculator for this course, which can be purchased through Aquinas at a discount rate of approximately £75.

Qualifications & Assessments

Exam Board EDEXCEL
Level Level 3
Qualification A Level
Assessment Method 100% Examination
Entry Requirements Entry Requirements
Photograph of a student with a calculator

Paper 1: Data and Probability (2 hours)

Topics include:-

  • Numerical measures
  • Graphs and diagrams
  • Population and samples
  • Binomial distribution
  • Normal distribution
  • Correlation and linear regression
  • Bayes’ theorem,
  • Experimental design
  • Exponential and Poisson distributions

Paper 2: Statistical Inference (2 hours)

Topics include:-

  • Correlation and linear regression
  • Introduction to hypothesis testing
  • Contingency tables
  • One and two sample non-parametric tests
  • Experimental design
  • Sampling
  • Estimates and resampling
  • Significance testing
  • Confidence intervals
  • Paired tests
  • Goodness of fit
  • Analysis of variance

Paper 3: Statistics in Practice

Questions may be set on any of the topics within the specification, including the Statistical Enquiry Cycle (SEC).

Students can progress from this qualification to:

  • a range of different, relevant academic or vocational higher education qualifications
  • employment in a relevant sector.

In particular, this qualification provides a foundation in statistics for students seeking to undertake higher education in social sciences, biological sciences or medicine and related health studies.

Students may be surprised at just how many interesting jobs there are for statisticians. There is a long list which includes jobs in forensics, environmental science, the medical industry, market research, the sports industry and the pharmaceutical industry.

  • UKMT Senior Maths Challenge
  • Maths Inspiration Lecture
  • Maths Fest
  • Dame Kathleen Ollerenshaw Lecture
  • Making Maths at Manchester
  • Problem Solving Course

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

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.

Further Mathematics

This subject is for those who love maths and really want to take it further. It allows you to delve deeper into the subject in a more challenging way.

Student sitting at a desk holding a pen and smiling

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

Mathematics

This course is for those who enjoy the challenges of mathematics and want an A level which is highly thought of by both employers and universities.

Photograph of an A level maths student.

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
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