Maths - KS4

Studying GCSE Maths gives students essential skills in problem-solving, logical reasoning, and handling numbers with confidence. It equips them with the mathematical knowledge needed for everyday life, further study, and a wide range of future careers.

Exam board: Edexcel

Qualification: GCSE Mathematics 1MA1

GCSE specification documentCurriculum Map for Maths

Assessment throughout the course

The Edexcel GCSE Mathematics (1MA1) qualification in the UK assesses students’ skills in number, algebra, ratio, proportion, geometry, probability, and statistics. It is offered at two tiers: Foundation (grades 1–5) and Higher (grades 4–9), with students entered for the tier that best matches their ability.

Based on their attainment throughout Key Stage 3, students will start Year 10 on the most suitable pathway for them, however, tier decisions are not usually taken until much later in Year 10 or even in Year 11 in some cases, and students continue to be able to move up or down a group according to their progress.

Exams

The GCSE is externally assessed as follows:

• 3 x 90 minute exam papers, 80 marks available on each, usually across 20-30 questions of increasing difficulty.
• One of the exam papers is non-calculator; the other two permit the use of a calculator. 

The Maths Department recommends the use of a Casio FX83GT CW for Foundation Tier, or a Casio FX991W CW for Higher Tier. Both calculators can be purchased from the Maths Department. 

There is no coursework element in GCSE Mathematics.