MEI has published year-on-year analysis of A level and Core Maths entries, alongside thoughts from MEI’s Chief Executive, Charlie Stripp, on continued growth in entries to A level maths and Core Maths.
Everyone at the AMSP is equally delighted to see the increases in the number of students taking Core Maths, A level Mathematics, and A level Further Mathematics. Furthermore, the significant increase in students taking AS level Further Mathematics demonstrates the value of this qualification in its own right.
These increases are testament to the high-quality teaching of maths by teachers in primary schools, secondary schools and colleges across the country.
Despite the continued growth in A level entries, there is still much to do. Gender inequality in both A level Mathematics and Further Mathematics remains too high, and too many students from disadvantaged backgrounds with high prior attainment do not achieve as well as their peers from more advantaged backgrounds at GCSE – this limits their access to A level Mathematics. Our Higher Level Maths Achievement Programme and Girls Progression Programme are designed to tackle these inequalities.
Whilst Core Maths numbers continue to grow, far too many students do not study maths alongside their A levels, technical or vocational courses at exactly the stage in their education when they have the wider contextual awareness to apply it in real life. They could and should study Core Maths.
The AMSP are providing support to teachers, schools and colleges such that the numbers of students taking Level 3 qualifications can continue to grow. Our professional development supports teachers to inspire their students and allows schools to deliver the full range of level 3 qualifications.
We would like to congratulate all students for their achievements on Level 3 results day and wish them every success in where it takes them.