What opportunities will this course give me?

Many level 3 courses and some university courses require a grade 4 in GCSE Mathematics as an entry requirement.

What will I be learning?

Level 3 Core Maths is for those students aged 16-19 who wish to improve their Mathematic skills beyond a GCSE, during their time in FE.
This qualification gives learners the mathematical skills to tackle problems in a variety of authentic situations. It enables learners to strengthen the mathematical knowledge and skills which they have learnt at GCSE at Grade 4 and above so that they can apply them to the problems which they will encounter in further study, life and employment.
To be delivered in two 1.5 hour sessions per week over 32 weeks.
Students wishing to go onto HE or other progression courses, will benefit from the Core Level 3 Maths Programme.
We offer full time (FT) and part time (PT) daytime classes, evening classes for Students over the age of 19yrs and depending on numbers, PT may infill into FT. Lessons take place twice a week with two 1.5 hour sessions, starting in September for 32 weeks. PT evening will run once a week on Monday for 3 hours.

(Note - the late start course runs for 24 weeks only).
There are usually no lessons during Hampshire school holidays.

Skills taught on the course include :
Working and gradients, geometry and measures, risk, estimation, problem solving, communicating solutions, use of technology.
• Number work
• Geometry (Shape, Space and Measures)
• Statistics & Probability
• Algebra
• Application of these skills to your daily life
• Reasoning and Problem Solving
• Growth and Decay
• Normal distribution
• Risk
• Appreciation and Depreciation
• Standard Form
• Exponentials and logarithmic scales

Why is this course for me?

Students will be expected to attend two 1.5 hour weekly sessions which will be delivered as a mixture of taught sessions, group work, pair work and individual tasks. There is also the opportunity to practise past exam papers at appropriate times. There will be an emphasis on developing the ability to use and apply maths in your daily life, and develop reasoning and problem-solving skills. Students will sit two Exam papers in May, and they will need to sit both papers to gain a full qualification.

What do I need to sign up?

Students who would like to enrol on this course need to first come along to one of our initial assessment sessions so that we can ensure that you are on the correct course for you. Attendance at the initial assessment session can be arranged by calling the college reception.
All students must have a Grade 4/ C Grade GCSE in Mathematics on Entry.
The course starts in September, and only in exceptional circumstances are late enrolments considered.

Is there anything else I need to know?

Built to enhance students currently studying Engineering and Business studies, IT, Gaming and Computer Science students also benefit from the extended Knowledge at Level 3. This programme is open to all Full-time students wishing to Enhance their Mathematical Skills.

This can also bridge the gap for those students whom have already gained a C Grade or above but intend to go onto HE or related Courses, or to enhance a chosen Career Pathway. It has been designed for those students, who would otherwise not study Maths at any Level during their time in FE.

So far the Level 3 Core Maths is only offered at Portsmouth College locally and other Various Universities nationally. At Level 3, the Programme has the same UCAS points as an AS.
Pre Release Material in line with the A Level criteria in mid March, for Exam Preparation.

For your first lesson, bring along writing equipment.

Application Information

Please note that all courses are subject to minimum numbers and course descriptions may be subject to change. A place on your chosen course is not confirmed until all of the necessary enrolment paperwork is signed and any relevant fees are paid. The team will be in touch to discuss this with you, once your application has been processed.

Course Code

PSMAC3

Need some further advice?

If you require further advice and guidance about any course costs and/or the funding options available to you, the College has a dedicated Information, Advice and Guidance team who can be contacted on telephone 023 8091 1299.

The Equality Act

The College wishes to ensure that it complies with the requirements of the Equality Act 2010. If you are a disabled person, please ensure that we know what you need so that we can make all reasonable adjustments to help you succeed.

Please note all courses descriptions may be subject to change.