The number of A-level Mathematics entries across the UK is up 3.6% on last year, with 97,690 student entries.
Figures released by the Joint Council for Qualifications also show that:
- A-level Further Mathematics has continued to rise in popularity, with entries increasing by 5.1% (to 15,748)
- AS Mathematics entries decreased by 21% (to 14,466)
- AS Further Mathematics entries decreased by 12% (to 4,707)
There was a mixed picture across mathematics entries and attainment in Scotland. At National 5 entries were down to 36,481 compared with 41,284 in 2020, with an A-C attainment rate of 73.0% (79.1% in 2020). The number of entries were more encouraging for both Higher and Advanced Higher. Entries at Higher Level increased to 19,419 compared with 19,182 in 2020 and for Advanced Higher entries increased to 3,783 from 3,635 in 2020. However, the A-C attainment rates decreased in both Higher 80.1% compared with 83.3% in 2020 and for Advanced Higher the A-C attainment level decreased to 87.0% from 89.2% in 2020.
The London Mathematical Society (LMS) extends its congratulations to all students receiving their results. The past year has been an extraordinary year for both students and teachers and their hard work and resilience in light of the pandemic is to be admired.
The Mathematical Sciences continues to offer a wide choice of rewarding careers and are a pre-requisite for jobs in all sectors of the economy, whether or not students go on to use their mathematics qualification in higher education. The numeracy, modelling, logical and problem-solving skills that students gain from their Mathematical Science studies are sought by employers, and the contribution these young people will make to our economic success in the future is crucial.