Why Core Maths?

Core Maths encompasses several qualifications which develop understanding of mathematics and data in their broadest sense, equipping students with the mathematical, statistics and data skills needed for their post-16 studies in most subjects, for personal development, financial awareness, and employment. Core Maths qualifications are designed to meet the substantial unmet demand from UK employers for quantitatively skilled people – including in arts, humanities, sciences and social sciences.

Core Maths for All

In 2022, the Royal Society and BA published a statement calling for all students to have the opportunity to take mathematics qualifications such as Core Maths beyond the age of 16. The Society also published a blog, written by Professor Paul Glaister CBE, called We need to support Core Maths qualifications to realise young people's ambitions.

In the 2021-22 academic year only 11,683 students across 740 schools and colleges sat the Core Maths exam – an estimated 7% of the potential numbers. More than half of these schools and colleges entered ten candidates or fewer and geographically, provision is unevenly spread.

A press release highlighting this patchy provision was published in December 2023. 

Recognition of Core Maths

The Royal Society has previously called on universities to incentivise prospective undergraduates to take Core Maths by including it in entry requirements, and for greater promotion of the value of Core Maths to employers (see 2022 statement). While the general view of Core Maths among universities is positive, formal acceptance of the qualifications as part of entry requirements remains inconsistent. This lack of formal support and awareness is exacerbated by the fact that Core Maths results are not reported by JCQ (Joint Qualifications Council) alongside A-levels.

Core Maths across the country

Through our research we found that the provision of Core Maths was patchy. Explore our local authority map to see the breakdown throughout England in 2021-2022.