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The England, Wales and N. Ireland offers a wide range of maths qualifications designed to suit learners of all abilities and aspirations, from foundational numeracy skills to advanced studies in pure and applied mathematics.
Whether students pursue A levels, vocational qualifications, or further enrichment opportunities such as Core Maths, the landscape can often seem complex. MEI offers support for teachers and provides information to employers about the qualifications available. We can help students navigate the options available and inspire them to achieve their full potential in mathematics.
At Key Stage 4 students take the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) in Mathematics in England, Wales and N. Ireland.
They are typically taken at age 16. The qualifications are graded 9–1 in England and A*–G in Wales and N. Ireland. A grade 4 (or C) is considered a standard pass, while a grade 5 is a strong pass. Students can take either the foundation tier (grades 1–5) or the higher tier (grades 4–9).
Education policy in England requires full-time students aged 16–18 who have not achieved grade 4 or higher in GCSE Mathematics to continue studying maths.
Those who achieve grade 3 in GCSE Mathematics at age 16 are required to continue to study towards GCSE Mathematics post-16. Those who achieve GCSE grade 2 or below can either study towards GCSE or towards Functional Skills Maths level 2.
For those continuing maths beyond GCSE, options include A level Mathematics, A level Further Mathematics, and vocational alternatives like Core Maths.
A levels provide a deeper theoretical understanding, while Core Maths is designed for students who want to develop practical mathematical skills without taking a full A level. Additionally, students taking T levels or certain BTECs may study applied maths as part of their course.
Recommended competitions to support maths qualifications
Calculator Crunch – it’s fun and it’s free
Calculator Crunch is a challenge that aims to develop calculator familiarity for secondary school maths. Calculator Crunch problems provide practice for Year 6 and 7 pupils in key areas of the primary maths curriculum and develop confidence with calculators in readiness for secondary school maths.
Further Education Maths Challenge
MEI’s Further Education Maths Challenge, sponsored by AQA, is a national competition designed to inspire and support post-16 students who are improving their maths skills and working towards gaining a Functional Skills maths qualification or improving their GCSE Mathematics grade.
Ritangle
The Ritangle competition is a maths challenge designed for A level, International Baccalaureate, Scottish Highers, and students of equivalent qualifications. Engaging challenges that will push your limits, Ritangle offers a fun and competitive way to explore your passion for maths.