'A' Level Maths
Which Maths courses are possible?
When pupils leave Kirk Balk at the end of year 11 there are several opportunities for them to continue to study Mathematics. The most popular ways are to study one of the range of 'A' level Maths courses on offer or to re-sit the GCSE Maths if an improved grade is required. Locally Barnsley College, Sheffield College, Wath Comprehensive School 6th Form, Penistone Grammar School 6th Form, Thomas Rotherham College and Dearne College offer both options.
'A' Level Maths
To embark on an 'A' level in Mathematics students will generally require 5 GCSEs at grade C or above, preferably including Mathematics at grade B or higher from the GCSE Higher Specification. 'A' level Maths is now modular and is assessed in a similar way to the Modular Maths GCSE course. The usual route to gaining an 'A' level in Maths is to complete 3 modules in the first year leading to an 'AS' qualification and then complete a further 3 modules in the second year to gain the 'A2' qualification (equivalent to the old 'A' level). Students can study for a double qualification in Maths by completing 12 modules over the two year period (equivalent to the old Maths and Further Maths 'A' levels).
GCSE Maths Re-sit
This course is for students who wish to improve on the GCSE grade they obtained at school. Dependant upon the post 16 establishment, students will either complete the modular course (2 module tests, 2 pieces of courework and a terminal exam) or the traditional linear course (2 pieces of coursework and two final exams). In some circumstances it may be possible for students to re-submit the coursework that they completed at school. Former pupils of Kirk Balk School are asked to contact the school early in the academic year to see if the coursework is still available.
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