Level 3 Core Maths Course in Luton for 16 to 18 Year Olds

CostFree for 16 to 18 year olds
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start6 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyAQA awarding body

A sixth-form course for 16 to 18 year olds. Aged 19 or over? Check which courses you can do free.

About this course

Free Level 3 Mathematical Studies Course in Luton. Classes run at Luton Sixth Form College. You'll need GCSE Mathematics at grade 5 and GCSE English at grade 4 to enrol. The course builds on GCSE maths, applying it to real problems across subjects like economics, psychology, business, and health and social care. It's also known as Core Maths and is equivalent to an AS level. Many universities recognise this level 3 mathematical studies qualification and offer a grade reduction in their entry requirements for students who complete it. The course runs over two years full-time.

Who this course is for

The skills and techniques which are developed in Mathematics play a significant part in many other disciplines. Mathematics, as well as being an important subject in its own right, is vital as a support for many subjects, especially in the Sciences and Social Sciences, e.g. Biology, Business Studies, Economics, Computing, Geography, Psychology, BTEC Applied Science, Business, Health and Social Care, IT. For those interested in further study at university, many universities offer a grade drop in their standard offer for those who successfully complete a Mathematical Studies qualification. Regardless, a qualification in Mathematics is a valid and desirable goal for many students, whatever their long-term aims may be.

Entry requirements

In addition to our general entry requirements, you must have:

  • GCSE Mathematics - grade 4 achieved either on the Foundation or Higher course.
  • GCSE English - grade 4

To be successful, you should enjoy problem-solving and bring a positive attitude to your mathematical endeavours.

You will also need to purchase a new calculator (expected cost £20-£25) which will support advanced statistical distributions such as the normal distribution. The calculator you used for GCSE will not be suitable.

What you will learn

  • You'll apply mathematical techniques to real-life problems across a range of contexts.
  • You'll develop statistical reasoning, including working with data and probability.
  • You'll use advanced statistical tools, including the normal distribution.
  • You'll strengthen the mathematical skills that support subjects like biology, economics, geography, psychology, and business.
  • You'll build problem-solving approaches relevant to higher education and the workplace.
  • You'll interpret and analyse quantitative information critically.

How you will learn

You'll study in the classroom over two years, working through practical, real-world mathematical problems. Learning is applied rather than abstract, with a focus on using maths to make sense of situations drawn from science, social science, and business contexts. Assessment is by written examination at the end of the course, as set by AQA.

What you will need to bring

You'll need to buy a scientific calculator that supports advanced statistical distributions, including the normal distribution. The expected cost is £20 to £25. The calculator you used for GCSE will not be suitable. Luton Sixth Form College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Data analyst: uses statistical and quantitative skills daily
  • Business analyst: applies numerical reasoning to commercial decisions
  • Finance assistant: supports budgeting, reporting, and forecasting
  • Research assistant: handles data collection and analysis in many sectors
  • Economics or policy analyst: interprets data to inform decisions
  • Science technician: supports lab work requiring mathematical understanding

What you could study next

This mathematical studies qualification is a strong foundation for degree-level study in economics, psychology, business, geography, or any science subject. You could progress to a full A Level in Mathematics if you want to go further with the subject. At university, degrees in data science, finance, actuarial science, or social research all build directly on the skills developed here.

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