We follow the Edexcel 9MA0 Mathematics syllabus. The A-level course is based on pure mathematics, statistics and mechanics, and is assessed on three two-hour examinations for Mathematics.

For Further Mathematics (Edexcel 9FM0), there are four units – Core Pure 1, Core Pure 2, Further Pure 1 and Further Mechanics 1, each assessed with a 90-minute examination at the end of Upper 6th.

Studying both Mathematics and Further Mathematics leads to two A-levels, and can be considered a powerful base. It is not enough, however, to recognise that a mathematical qualification would be useful; you need a real interest in the subject, coupled with tenacity and determination, if you are to succeed.

Music A-level is a valued subject for a wide variety of degree courses and is by no means solely vocational. The study of Music provides many of the personal qualities that universities and employers are looking for in young people: self-discipline, motivation, initiative, dedication, creativity, logical thinking and teamwork.

St Edmund’s follows the WJEC Eduqas Specification which offers two alternative pathways for the traditional Performing and Composing components at A-level:

Option A: 35% Performing and 25% Composing

Option B: 25% Performing and 35% Composing

Component 1 Performing:

A public performance which is externally assessed by a visiting examiner. Option A requires a performance consisting of a minimum of three pieces and lasting between 10-12 minutes. Option B requires a performance consisting of a minimum of two pieces and lasting between 6-8 minutes. In both cases, Grade 6 is the standard level of difficulty; anything above this will access additional ‘Level of Difficulty’ marks.

Component 2 Composition:

In Option A two compositions are submitted, one of which must reflect techniques and conventions of the Western Classical Tradition and be in response to a brief set by Eduqas. The second composition is a free composition. Option B requires three compositions, two as for Option A and an additional composition reflecting the musical characteristics of a different area of study. The total duration of compositions for Option A is 4-6 minutes and for Option B is 8-10 minutes.

Component 3 Appraising (40%):

Assessment is by a written examination, including listening to extracts.

There are three areas of study:

Area of Study A: The Western Classical Tradition covering The Development of the Symphony 1750-1900 including detailed analysis of Symphony No 104 in D major, ‘London’ by Haydn.

Area of Study B: Rock and Pop (1960-2000)

Area of Study C: Into the Twentieth Century, covering Impressionism, Expressionism and Serialism and Neo-Classicism, and including analysis of two set works:

• Trio for Oboe, Bassoon and Piano, Movement II by Poulenc
• Three Nocturnes, Number 1 Nuages by Debussy.