Maths GCSE
Board: AQA
Course length: 1 year
About the subject
GCSE Mathematics is for students who have not yet achieved a Grade 4 or above in GCSE Mathematics and who are studying a full-time Level 3 programme at Collyer’s.
This one-year retake course follows the foundation syllabus, which covers Grades 1 to 5. The aim of the course is to give students the opportunity to improve their maths grade, strengthen their confidence and develop the mathematical skills needed for future study, employment and everyday life.
In 2025, 45% of students passed GCSE Mathematics.
Learning styles
Students will revisit and develop important mathematical skills through guided teaching, practice questions, worked examples and regular review. Lessons will focus on building confidence with core topics and helping students understand how to apply mathematical methods accurately.
Students will receive practice tests each term to review important topics that have been covered and to help them identify areas for improvement.
Subject Modules and Assessment
Assessment is by examination.
Students follow the foundation syllabus, covering Grades 1 to 5. There are three exam papers.
The course will support students in developing confidence across the main areas of GCSE Mathematics, including:
- number
- algebra
- ratio, proportion and rates of change
- geometry and measures
- probability
- statistics
- Students will complete practice tests during the year to consolidate learning and prepare for the final examinations.
Subject Combinations and Progression
GCSE Mathematics is an important qualification for progression to higher education, apprenticeships, employment and many future career pathways.
Students who have not achieved a Grade 4 or above in GCSE Mathematics will take this course alongside their Level 3 qualifications, provided they meet the relevant entry requirements for their main programme of study.
Entry Requirements
Students must have a minimum average grade of 4 across all their GCSE results with a minimum of 5 GCSE, although most students are expected to take 8 or more and only in exceptional circumstances would less than 8 be considered.
For GCSE Maths specifically, students’ previous GCSE grade in the subject needs to be Grade 3 or below.
GCSE retakes are only available for full-time Level 3 students. Collyer’s does not offer a pure Level 2, GCSE-equivalent retake year.
FAQs
Who is this course for?
This course is for students who have not yet achieved a Grade 4 or above in GCSE Mathematics and who meet the entry requirements for a full-time Level 3 programme.
Which exam board is used?
The exam board is AQA.
Which syllabus do students follow?
Students follow the foundation syllabus, covering Grades 1 to 5.
How is the course assessed?
The course is assessed through three exam papers.
Will there be practice assessments during the year?
Yes. Students receive practice tests each term to review important topics that have been covered.
Can I study this as a standalone GCSE retake year?
No. GCSE retakes are only available for full-time Level 3 students. Collyer’s does not offer a pure Level 2 retake year.