Careermag Lifelong learning 04 21 digital v3a | Page 44

GCSE Mathematics is not your only choice , you may choose Functional Maths , this is more functional than GCSE and is designed to prepare you with the maths that you need for work , study and life .
ADULT MATHS tiers of entry foundation and higher tier . The grades are from 9 to 1 , with 9 being the highest grade , grade 4 is equivalent to the old grade C pass , grade 7 is equivalent to the old grade A . Whilst all grades are a pass , it is often a grade 4 that is needed as a pass to gain entry to HE or the job market-some may have specific entry requirements of grades higher than a grade 4 .
Deciding which GCSE tier of entry often depends on what career route you are taking . Foundation tier enables you to gain a grade 1 to 5 and higher tier a grade 4 to 9 . If you are aiming for a maths related career you might be best doing higher tier , otherwise foundation tier is normally most suitable for the majority of adults .
Functional Mathematics
GCSE Mathematics is not your only choice , you may choose Functional Maths , this is more functional than GCSE and is designed to prepare you with the maths that you need for work , study and life . There are more choices of level , with 5 levels , entry 1 , entry 2 , entry 3 , level 1 and level 2 . Entry levels are suitable if you really lack confidence in maths , levels 1 and 2 are at a similar level to GCSE . Functional maths is a qualification in its
GCSE Mathematics is not your only choice , you may choose Functional Maths , this is more functional than GCSE and is designed to prepare you with the maths that you need for work , study and life .
own right that will help you gain entry to employment or further study .
Enjoying Mathematics
You will most likely find the experience a positive one and will enjoy learning maths again and may surprise yourself by how much maths you already know from your experience in the real world . Adult maths courses are free to anyone aged 19 or over that doesn ’ t already have a GCSE grade 4 or above / grade C or above .
Starting Mathematics
Whatever your reasons for doing a maths qualification your local college or ITP will be able to assess and advise you on the most appropriate course for your needs . Doing so could be life changing for you , it certainly was for me !
About the author Martin Newton is a curriculum resources developer for Mathematics In Education and Industry ( MEI )
Martin writes resources and leads training sessions for maths teachers . He has worked with MEI for 2 years and was a Maths teacher in further education colleges ’ for 20 years working with adults and 16-18 students . Martin appreciates the power of getting a second chance in education as he left school at 16 with few qualifications , did a variety of jobs including landscape gardening and working in a shop . Martin , at the age of 30 , did GCSEs and A levels in an FE College and then progressed on to University to become a maths teacher .
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