Course information
Mathematics (Further)
Dulwich College - Southwark
02086933601
Dulwich Common, Dulwich, London, SE21 7LD
Course summary

There are many reasons why pupils continue with Mathematics, but perhaps three main reasons are: • you have enjoyed studying the subject so far, have demonstrated a good grasp of problem-solving using algebraic techniques and are keen to study the subject at a deeper level; • you may be following Science-based courses for which Mathematics fits particularly well with subjects such as Physics or Economics and leads to university courses in Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, Economics, Architecture, Computing etc; • you may not be following a Science-based course but may still choose Mathematics to add breadth to your studies. By taking Mathematics you will continue to develop a logical and rigorous approach to solving problems – a useful skill in most subjects. Making the Decision A level Mathematics is a challenging course. If you enjoy Mathematics now and have coped well with algebra, trigonometry, geometry and problem solving, you will probably continue to enjoy Mathematics at A level. However, if you don’t enjoy Mathematics now or find it challenging then it will most likely only get worse! Mathematics at A level is more abstract and more algebraic and progresses at a much faster pace than IGCSE. At IGCSE, questions tend to lead you through to the answer whereas at A level the questions are less directed. Details of the Courses The subject is now a linear course with all exams sat at the end of Year 13. It covers three broad strands: Pure Mathematics, Mechanics and Statistics. There are two basic courses which you can study: A Level Further Mathematics This course contains roughly twice as much material as the Single Mathematics course and results in two full A levels in Mathematics, to be taken alongside two other A-level subjects. The board we follow, OCR A, allows pupils to learn several higher Pure Mathematics topics, including group theory, number theory and partial differentiation, along with being able to specialise in either further Mechanics or Statistics. The Mechanics course is recommended for pupils considering studying Physics, Engineering or related subjects at University and the Statistics course for pupils considering studying anything Financial or Medical at university. Pupils thinking of studying Mathematics at university can take either course based on which they think they would enjoy the most. Most pupils who study Further Mathematics are taking both the IGCSE and Additional Mathematics courses or a similar qualification. As a general rule, it is probably unwise to contemplate taking A-Level Further Mathematics without a grade 8 or 9 (an A*) at IGCSE and a good track record in the harder material in the Additional Mathematics course. Pupils not currently studying Additional Mathematics should chat with Mr England to consider how they can bridge the gap if they want to study Further Mathematics. Pupils who opt for Further Mathematics are expected to gain four full A levels, i.e. to continue both of their other two subjects to A level to give breadth to their studies. Further Mathematics is fast-paced and hard work but it is really rewarding for those who enjoy Mathematics.

Entry requirements

For those applicants currently studying GCSEs, we also require 14 points as a minimum entry requirement, where Grades 8 and 9 = 3 points, Grade 7 = 2 points and Grade 6 = 1 point. We would expect applicants to achieve significantly higher than our minimum grade requirement. GCSEs should include English Language, Mathematics, and a grade 8 in the three subjects to be studied at A level, where those subjects are being studied for GCSE. For 16+ applicants to enter the Remove from elsewhere in the UK, the minimum requirement for entry will be 14 points at GCSE (see above) or the equivalent. We look for a grade 8 or above in English Language, Mathematics, and all subjects chosen for study at A level. A-level grades are not commonly achieved without at least a grade 8 at GCSE in the same or related subjects. The most competitive universities will expect a mixture of A and A* grades at the A level.

How you'll be assessed

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionLondon
Local AuthoritySouthwark
Ofsted Rating
Gender TypeCo-Educational
ISI ReportView Report
Boarding Fee£48,324 - £51,546
Sixth Form Fee£24,693;
AddressDulwich Common, Dulwich, London, SE21 7LD