The number of A-level mathematics entries across the UK is up 4.4% on last year, with 92,711 students sitting the exam.
Figures released today by the Joint Council for Qualifications also show that
- A-level further mathematics has continued in popularity, with entries increasing by 6.9% (to 14,993)
- AS mathematics entries increased by 2.2% (to 165,311)
- AS further mathematics entries have increased by 10.2% (to 27,034)
The London Mathematical Society and the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications warmly congratulate all who have successfully completed these examinations, and the teachers who have supported and encouraged them.
This continues to be a welcome trend for mathematics and shows that students value the skills a mathematics qualification gives them to help fulfil their career aspirations and is excellent currency in the job market.
Mathematics underpins our 21st century technology, economy and society, and this is recognised in the employment market, where the prospects for those with a mathematics qualification are amongst the best. The flow of trained mathematicians into other disciplines and into the industries of the future relies upon our universities’ research and teaching excellence.
Professor Alice Rogers, Education Secretary at the London Mathematical Society, said, ‘We welcome the growth in the number of students doing A-level mathematics and especially in further mathematics. It is good to see increasing numbers taking mathematics A-level because it opens doors to so many HE courses and interesting careers’.
Professor David Arrowsmith, IMA Honorary Secretary, said, ‘We are very pleased to note the continued rise in the number of students taking mathematics and further mathematics. Students clearly appreciate the value of a mathematics qualification and are enjoying considerable success, which we hope will provide an increased number of mathematicians for the future’.
Notes for Editors
1. The London Mathematical Society (LMS) is the UK’s learned Society for mathematics. Founded in 1865 for the promotion and extension of mathematical knowledge, the Society is concerned with all branches of mathematics and its applications. It is an independent and self-financing charity, incorporated under Royal Charter, with a membership of over 2600 drawn from all parts of the UK and overseas. Its principle activities are the organisation of scientific meetings and conferences, the publication of journals and books, the provision of financial support for mathematical activities, and the contribution to public debates on issues and policy matters relating to mathematics research and education. It works collaboratively with other mathematical bodies worldwide. It is the UK adhering body to the International Mathematical Union (IMU).
In 2015 the Society is commemorating its 150th Anniversary with a large programme of events aimed at celebrating the contributions of mathematics to the UK, both historically and in a modern context. These events will take place throughout 2015 and will fall into three major themes: 150 years of the LMS and Mathematics, New Ways of Promoting Mathematics, and Mathematics as Part of Our Culture.
2. The Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA) is the learned and professional society for mathematics. It promotes mathematics research, education and careers, and the use of mathematics in business, industry and commerce. Amongst its activities the IMA produces academic journals, organises conferences, and engages with government. Founded in 1964, the Institute has 5,000 members. Forty percent of members are employed in education (schools through to universities), and the other 60% work in commercial, industrial and governmental organisations. In 1990 the Institute was incorporated by Royal Charter and was subsequently granted the right to award Chartered Mathematician designation.
3. The LMS and IMA are members of the Council for the Mathematical Sciences, which also comprises the Royal Statistical Society, the Edinburgh Mathematical Society and the Operational Research Society.
4. The Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) For a complete set of national results, go to www.jcq.org.uk/national_results/alevels/
Contact:
Dr John Johnston
Joint Promotion of Mathematics
London Mathematical Society
De Morgan House
57–58 Russell Square
London WC1B 4HS.
Tel: +44 (0)20 7927 0804
Email: john.johnston@lms.ac.uk
Institute of Mathematics and its Applications
Catherine Richards House, 16 Nelson Street, Southend-on-Sea, Essex. SS1 1EF
www.ima.org.uk
London Mathematical Society
De Morgan House, 57-58 Russell Square, London. WC1B 4HS
www.lms.ac.uk
