Further Mathematics
Course Overview
Further Mathematics
This course is an additional A Level in Mathematics, expanding upon the many areas of study met in A Level Mathematics as well as introducing new and exciting topics. A genuine love of maths and an enquiring mind are essential if you wish to study this course. You must be confident with the algebra studied at higher level GCSE and show an enthusiasm to embrace the challenges that A Level Further Mathematics provides.
The content of A Level Further Mathematics splits into two strands: Compulsory (Core) Pure Maths and Further Applied Maths.
50%: Core Pure Mathematics builds on the knowledge and understanding of algebra and extends the content introduced in A Level Mathematics. You will meet new topics such as complex numbers, matrices, proof, hyperbolic functions, polar coordinates and further calculus.
50%: Further Applied Maths options will be chosen depending on the strengths of the group. Options are available in Additional Pure Maths, Statistics and Mechanics as well as a relatively modern branch of Maths known as Decision Mathematics. This uses algorithms to solve a range of problems involving networks and is particularly useful in science, computing, business and industry.
This course is unique in that it can be studied as either an AS Level qualification or full A Level. This allows students who perform well in Year 12 Mathematics to pick up AS Further Mathematics in Year 13. This is a real advantage, especially if you are looking at studying Maths at university.
For AS Level there are two exams: Core Pure Maths and Further Applied Maths. All candidates will sit these exams at the end of the first year to assess their suitability to progress onto the A Level course.
For A Level there are four exams: two Core Pure papers and two Further Applied papers. The content from both years of study are examined in these papers.
Located at: Barnsley Sixth Form College
Course Start: September 2025
Course length: 1 Years
Study Mode: Full-time
Course Code: QSFCASFU1Y
Course Fees and Funding
How much does the course cost?
Full-time Barnsley College students aged 16-18 years old do not have to pay tuition fees.
Other funding information
This course may be eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan.
For eligibility information and details about how to apply, visit the Advanced Learner Loan page. Or contact our Information Team by emailing: info@barnsley.ac.uk or calling 01226 216 123.
Course Content
You must have a minimum of Grade 8 in GCSE Maths.
Since A Level Further Mathematics is a second A Level in Maths, you must also be studying A Level Mathematics alongside this course. A Level (or AS Level) Further Mathematics can only be taken as a fourth A Level course to complement the three main subject choices.
This course is unique in that it can be studied as either an AS Level qualification or full A Level. This allows students who perform well in Year 12 Mathematics to pick up AS Further Mathematics in Year 13. This is a real advantage, especially if you are looking at studying Maths at university.
For AS Level there are two exams: Core Pure Maths and Further Applied Maths. All candidates will sit these exams at the end of the first year to assess their suitability to progress onto the A Level course.
For A Level there are four exams: two Core Pure papers and two Further Applied papers. The content from both years of study are examined in these papers.
A Level Further Mathematics is a highly regarded and prestigious qualification. Many Higher Education programmes in maths, physics and engineering now ask specifically for Further Mathematics to at least AS Level.
Graduates go on to have a range of careers in areas such as actuarial science, quantitative finance and risk management, aerospace engineering, biomathematics and cryptology.
Other Resources
For further details, please contact our Information Unit by calling 01226 216 123 or emailing: info@barnsley.ac.uk
Our Additional Learning Support team can provide you with the support you need. Call 01226 216 769 for further information.
Barnsley College has a range of sports opportunities for all students to take part in, gain professional training and compete nationally and internationally. We also have a state-of-the-art fitness village, the Sports Village, where students can make use of our fitness suite, spinning studio and classes for competitive rates.
Barnsley Sports Academy offers state-of-the-art facilities and diverse sports programs, enabling students to achieve academic and athletic excellence. Remember, you don't have to be studying Sport to join Barnsley Sports Academy.
Disclaimer: Please note we reserve the right to change details without notice. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.
The course information on this page was last updated 12 May 2025.
