GCSE Maths Course in Reading – Reading College

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free GCSE Maths course in Reading. Classes run at Reading College, full-time during the day, over one year. A level 2 GCSE Maths qualification is a common entry requirement for college courses, including hairdressing and other vocational programmes. You'll study number, algebra, ratio, geometry, probability, and statistics. Many employers and colleges ask for GCSE Maths at grade 4 or above, and this Pearson Edexcel course meets that standard. You'll have an initial assessment to confirm the course is the right level for you.

Who this course is for

Whether you want to work in a professional kitchen or become a world-famous food blogger, critic, or stylist, you’ll be encouraged to interpret traditional cooking techniques and apply them to your own work. A successful journey through this industry is powered by a strong sense of curiosity, a desire to learn, and receiving relevant, authentic, motivating instruction that sparks the imagination. This is aligned with the Activate Learning Philosophy, which is rooted in an understanding of how the brain, motivation, and emotions work together to encourage learning. In each programme, you will use a more experimental and scientific approach in order to develop your cooking skills and senses. Continue on this journey of culinary exploration and discover methods of applying the principles of food science and cooking to new routes and possibilities. We add experiences and opportunities to help you get ahead in your career, including: work alongside experienced chefs on live projects, the opportunity to compete in regional and national food competitions, catering for big events, including awards dinners and functions, .. For further information please visit the Actiate Learning Website at https://www.activatelearning.ac.uk

Entry requirements

You need to have Professional Culinary Arts Level 1 or a relevant alternative qualification.. For further information please visit the Actiate Learning Website at https://www.activatelearning.ac.uk

What you will learn

  • You'll work with number, including fractions, decimals, percentages, and powers.
  • You'll solve algebraic equations and use formulae.
  • You'll apply ratio, proportion, and rates of change to real problems.
  • You'll interpret and construct graphs, charts, and statistical diagrams.
  • You'll calculate probability and analyse data sets.
  • You'll use geometric reasoning, including angles, area, volume, and Pythagoras' theorem.
  • You'll develop problem-solving skills across all topic areas.

How you will learn

You'll study in a classroom at Reading College, full-time during the day. The GCSE (9-1) in Mathematics is assessed entirely by written exams. Pearson Edexcel sets three papers: one non-calculator and two calculator papers. There is no coursework component. Your teacher will work through the syllabus with you, and you'll practise past papers as the exams approach.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Reading College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Hairdresser: GCSE Maths is a standard entry requirement for hairdressing courses.
  • Beauty therapist: many Level 2 and Level 3 beauty courses require GCSE Maths.
  • Nail technician: college entry requirements often include a maths qualification at this level.
  • Retail assistant: employers frequently ask for GCSE Maths grade 4 or above.
  • Healthcare support worker: NHS and care employers commonly require GCSE Maths.
  • Apprentice (any sector): most apprenticeship programmes require GCSE Maths at grade 4 or above.

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Diploma in Hairdressing: if hairdressing is your goal, this is the vocational qualification to study next.
  • Level 3 A Level Mathematics: for those who want to go further with maths in higher education or technical careers.
  • Level 3 T Level (various subjects): T Levels often require GCSE Maths at grade 4 or above as an entry condition.
  • Higher Education Access to HE Diploma: some Access courses require GCSE Maths, making this a gateway to university study.

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