Simon Dawson, AC for Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield
The Core Maths initiative aims to increase the number of post-16 students studying maths. The qualification is all about students doing meaningful mathematical problems to increase their confidence in using maths, meaning they are better equipped for the mathematical demands of other courses, higher education and employment.
Core Maths is a new level 3 qualification aimed at students who achieved at least a Grade 4 (formerly a Grade C) in GCSE Mathematics and wish to develop their practical skills so they may apply these in work, study or everyday life. The curriculum has been designed to maintain and develop real-life mathematical skills. What students study is not purely theoretical or abstract; it can be applied on a day-to-day basis, whether in work, study or life.
Most Core Maths courses will include a financial mathematics element and can help with other A level subjects, in particular with science, geography, business studies, economics and psychology. Mathematical skills are becoming increasingly important in the workplace and in higher education – studying Core Maths will help students to maintain these essential skills.
If you’d like to facilitate the teaching of Core Maths, your local Maths Hub may be running Work Groups to support you. Teachers can participate whether they’re experienced in teaching Core Maths or introducing it for the first time in September. The Work Group is a great way to develop pedagogy and look at resources to support pupils getting the best experience when following the Core Maths course.
In addition to Work Groups, the AMSP runs regional and national courses on the development of Core Maths. Please keep an eye on the events page on the AMSP website for dates and venues.