The number of A-level Mathematics entries across the UK is up 6.2% on last year, with 77,001 students sitting the exam. The number of entries is now higher than it has been for 18 years.
Figures released today by the Joint Council for Qualifications also show that
- A-level Further Mathematics has continued to rise in popularity, with entries increasing by 11.5% (to 11,682)
- AS-level Mathematics entries increased by 9.2% (to 112,847)
- AS-level Further Mathematics entries continued the trend, increasing by 13.1% to (to 14,884)
The London Mathematical Society and the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications warmly congratulate all who have successfully completed these examinations, and the teachers who have supported and encouraged them.
Since 2003 the number of students taking A-level Further Mathematics has more than doubled, from 5315 to 11,682 and the figure for AS Further Mathematics has roughly trebled, standing at 14,884 in 2010.
The LMS and IMA welcome the growth in numbers at A-level and AS, which are fundamental to providing a range of opportunities for young people in their future career choices.
Professor Chris Budd, Education Secretary at the London Mathematical Society said, “we welcome the growth in numbers of students doing A-level Mathematics and especially Further Mathematics A-level. We hope that the cuts in higher education will not prevent such students going on to do degrees in mathematics”.
Chris Belsom, Chair, IMA Schools and FE Committee, and formerly Head of Mathematics at Ampleforth College, York, said “we are very pleased to note the continued rise in the number of students taking Mathematics and Further Mathematics, making Mathematics, once again, one of the most popular subjects at this level. Students clearly appreciate the value of an A-level in this subject, and are enjoying considerable success, for which they deserve great credit”.
Notes for Editors
- The London Mathematical Society (LMS) is the UK’s learned society for mathematics. Founded in 1865 for the promotion and extension of mathematical knowledge, the Society is concerned with all branches of mathematics and its applications. It is an independent and self-financing charity, with a membership of over 2600 drawn from all parts of the UK and overseas. Its principal activities are the organisation of meetings and conferences, the publication of periodicals and books, the provision of financial support for mathematical activities, and the contribution to public debates on issues related to mathematics research and education. It works collaboratively with other mathematical bodies worldwide. It is the UK adhering body to the International Mathematical Union.
- The Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA) is the learned and professional society for mathematics. It promotes mathematics research, education and careers, and the use of mathematics in business, industry and commerce. Amongst its activities the IMA produces academic journals, organises conferences, and engages with government. Founded in 1964, the Institute has 5,000 members. Forty percent of members are employed in education (schools through to universities), and the other 60% work in commercial, industrial and governmental organisations. In 1990 the Institute was incorporated by Royal Charter and was subsequently granted the right to award Chartered Mathematician designation.
- The LMS and IMA are members of the Council for the Mathematical Sciences, which also comprises the Royal Statistical Society, the Edinburgh Mathematical Society and the Operational Research Society.
- The Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) For a complete set of national results, go to www.jcq.org.uk/national_results/alevels/
- Contact:
Dr John Johnston
Mathematics Promotion Unit
London Mathematical Society
De Morgan House
57–58 Russell Square
London WC1B 4HS.
Tel: +44 (0)20 7927 0804
Email: john.johnston@lms.ac.uk
Institute of Mathematics and its Applications Catherine Richards House, 16 Nelson Street, Southend-on-Sea, Essex. SS1 1EF
www.ima.org.uk
London Mathematical Society De Morgan House, 57-58 Russell Square, London. WC1B 4HS
www.lms.ac.uk
