At St Cyres School, we are delivering the new GCSE Mathematics (Double Award) qualification, introduced across Wales. This updated course replaces the previous separate Mathematics and Numeracy GCSEs and provides a more integrated and coherent approach to learning mathematics.

Overview

The GCSE Mathematics (Double Award) is a single course that leads to two GCSE grades. It combines both procedural mathematical skills and real-world problem-solving into one unified qualification.

This approach ensures that students develop:

• Strong mathematical knowledge

• Confidence in applying maths in everyday contexts

• Problem-solving and reasoning skills

What Will Students Study?

The course covers a broad range of mathematical topics, including:

• Number and algebra

• Geometry and measures

• Statistics and probability

• Financial mathematics and real-life applications

Students will learn how to:

• Solve problems using a range of mathematical techniques

• Interpret and analyse data

• Apply mathematics to real-world situations

• Communicate their reasoning clearly

Assessment

The qualification is assessed through external examinations in Year 11:

• November (Year 11)

• Summer (Year 11)

Students will sit multiple exam papers across these assessment windows, including both non-calculator and calculator papers.

All assessments are designed to test:

• Mathematical knowledge

• Application of skills

• Problem-solving in a range of contexts

There is no coursework component.

Grading

As a double award qualification, students receive:

• Two GCSE grades, awarded using letter grades (e.g. AA, BB, CC)

These grades reflect overall performance across all examination papers.

Why the Double Award?

The new qualification has been designed to:

• Simplify the curriculum into one coherent course

• Reduce duplication between subjects

• Provide a better balance between theory and real-life application

• Support progression to further study, apprenticeships, and employment

Support at St Cyres

At St Cyres School, we are committed to helping every student succeed in mathematics. We provide:

• Expert teaching tailored to all ability levels

• Regular assessments and feedback

• Targeted intervention and revision sessions

• Access to online learning resources

We encourage all students to develop confidence, resilience, and independence in their mathematical learning.