The aims and objectives of the Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Certificate in Mathematics in Context are to support the mathematical needs of a range of AS, A level and BTEC Level 3 qualifications, and to provide a progression from GCSE Mathematics.

It’s also supported by Higher Education institutions and employers and recognised in UCAS points.

If you’re planning to study subjects such as Science, Geography, Business, Economics or social sciences at A level, or a vocational qualification, or are planning to take an apprenticeship or move into employment, Core Maths will be useful to help refine and develop your maths skills.

The aims and objectives of the course:

● develop competence in the selection and use of mathematical methods and techniques

● develop confidence in representing and analysing authentic situations mathematically, and in applying mathematics to address related questions and issues

● build skills in mathematical thinking, reasoning and communication.

quals.pearson.com/mathematicsincontext

The Mathematics in Context course builds on GCSE maths to apply maths to real world contexts and problems. The course covers four areas of maths, Applications of statistics, probability, linear programming and sequences and growth.

The course is whole day class from 9:30-2:45 (with a lunch break) at Abraham Moss (Wednesday) or Forum Learning (Friday).

1 Applications of statistics Statistics is the study of the collection, organisation, analysis, interpretation and presentation of data. It plays an increasingly important role in life, study and employment in a wide variety of contexts. It is important to be comfortable and confident in dealing with real data. It is used in areas of study such as actuarial science, biology, business and economics, IT and psychology.

2 Probability Probability is used to determine a numerical value for the chance or risk of events happening. Probability theory has made significant contributions to almost all branches of science and engineering over the last 100 years. Probability is used in areas of study such as finance, science, artificial intelligence, business, computer science and philosophy.

3 Linear programming This is a problem-solving approach to achieve the best outcome (such as maximum profit or lowest cost) through consideration of conditions that can be modelled by linear relationships. Linear programming can be applied to a variety of contexts in business and industry. It is used most extensively in business and economics but is also utilised for some engineering problems. Linear programming models are used in industries such as transportation, energy, telecommunications and manufacturing. Linear programming has proved useful in modelling diverse types of problems in planning, routing, scheduling, task assignment and design.

4 Sequences and growth A mathematical understanding of sequences, growth and decay can be applied to a variety of real-life contexts and problem-solving tasks, including financial mathematics, population growth, epidemics, earthquakes and radioactive decay.

Entry requirements

Maths GCSE at Grade 5 (C) or above or an assessment to demonstrate maths skills at this level is an essential requirement.

English at GCSE/Level 2 Functional skills is desirable

Confident digitally to enable the completion of assignments

How is the course delivered?

The sessions will be delivered in one of our venues, one day per week. You will access materials and complete assignments via Google Classroom and a variety of online platforms including the Integral learning platform.

What will I need?

You will need access to a laptop or PC and a good internet connection to access learning materials and resources between sessions.

How will I be assessed?

The Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Certificate in Mathematics in Context consists of two externally examined papers in May/June. The qualification is graded and certificated on a five-grade scale from A (the highest) to E (the lowest). Students must complete both papers in May/June in any single year.

Course duration

34 weeks. 4.5 Hours per week class time.

What next after Mathematics in Context (Core Maths)?

Mathematics in Context (Core Maths) can lead to a number of different career and education paths.

The Advance Maths Support Programme here (https://amsp.org.uk/students/core-maths/what-next) can offer further advice.

We have our own careers guidance to support you too when you join a class.

Course dates and times

Available from September 2022

What next?

To apply please complete this form to attend an enrolment /assessment session at:

Abraham Moss on Wednesday 14th at 9:30

Forum Learning on Friday 16th at 9:30