SCIENCE & MATHS

FURTHER MATHS

Further Mathematics is a highly regarded subject, particularly valued by Russell Group universities, as it provides a strong foundation for those intending to pursue degrees in Mathematics, Science, Engineering, Computing, and Economics. Further Mathematics equips students with essential transferable skills, including statistical problem-solving, data analysis, and interpretation. Students explore a wider breadth of topics including matrices, polar coordinates and complex numbers.

Students who engage in Further Mathematics often find themselves with a wide array of career opportunities in diverse fields such as finance, medicine, engineering, business, and technology. The subject is known for being both enjoyable and rewarding, offering a stimulating and empowering educational experience.

Students have the option to take Further Mathematics as one of three A-levels (including Maths) or alongside three others as a fourth A-level. For those who prefer, an AS qualification can be taken at the end of Year 12.

If you're excited by the challenges of advanced mathematics and eager to push the boundaries of your understanding, this course will provide you with both an enriching educational experience and a solid foundation for future success.

Awarding Body:  Edexcel

Course Coordinator:

Mrs Metcalfe

metcalfee@nestonhigh.com

MATHEMATICS

Mathematics is a discipline that combines logic with the language of science, allowing us to describe the real world through numbers, patterns, and algebra. This enables us to uncover fundamental rules and apply them to predict and optimize various situations for practical benefit. As part of the A Level course, students will delve into both statistics and mechanics. In statistics, you will explore how to describe populations and calculate probabilities, while in mechanics, you'll model the movement of objects and bodies.

Mathematics is highly valued by universities and is a prerequisite for many degree programs. For instance, Maths is often required for entry into Economics degrees, even when A Level Economics is not. Notably, Cambridge recommends A Level Maths for their Law degree, highlighting its broad relevance.

Beyond its practical applications, there is also a deep, inherent beauty in mathematics. Much of what we study in Pure Mathematics was pursued out of curiosity long before its utility was understood, revealing the discipline's intellectual elegance. Whether for its practical benefits or its abstract beauty, the most important question to ask is: do you enjoy mathematics? If the answer is yes, then this course offers a rewarding and intellectually stimulating experience.

 Awarding Body:  Edexcel

Course Coordinator:

Mrs Metcalfe

metcalfee@nestonhigh.com

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Have you ever wondered why some people can run faster than others, how personality impacts performance, or what it takes to become an elite sports performer? Studying A Level Physical Education offers a fascinating insight into the world of sports performance, integrating three theoretical areas: Sport Psychology, Physiology, and Sociology. This course will equip you with a comprehensive understanding of the "how" and "why" behind physical activity and sports. You’ll explore the psychological factors that influence athletic performance, the physiological processes that underpin physical activity, and the sociological aspects that shape sports culture and participation. The blend of physical performance with academic rigor presents an exciting opportunity for students. In addition to theoretical knowledge, the course includes practical experiences and field trips, such as visits to St. George’s Elite FA training facility, where you will learn about sports science, rehabilitation, medicine, and biomechanics. You’ll also explore the Chester University Sports Science department and enjoy skiing at the Chill Factor. 

If you are passionate about sports and eager to delve into the complexities of performance, this A Level Physical Education course offers a dynamic and rewarding educational experience.

Awarding Body:  AQA

Course Coordinator:

Miss O'Hare

ohared@nestonhigh.com

PHYSICS

Physicists try to understand how the universe works and this syllabus provides an opportunity to develop an in-depth understanding of both classical and modern Physics. Students develop transferable skills which can open up many career pathways. In particular, Physics provides a firm grounding for engineering, high level environmental work, electronics, many aspects of IT, other sciences, architecture, medicine and veterinary science. Confidence using algebra and trigonometry is essential due to the high mathematical demand of the course. You will already be familiar with many of the topics that you will study, including forces, waves, radioactivity, electricity and magnetism. At A-level, you’ll look at these areas in more detail and find out how they are interconnected.  Even if you don’t go on to become a physicist, learning to think like one will help you get to the root of any problem and draw connections that aren’t obvious to others. Physics won’t give you all the answers, but it will teach you how to ask the right questions.

Awarding Body:  AQA

Course Coordinator:

Mr Orme

ormer@nestonhigh.com