Is Math GCSE Essential for Success?

GCSE Mathematics is one of the most important exams students will take. Many jobs and higher education require a good grade in the subject, and unfortunately, many students also consider it one of the most challenging subjects to excel in. But it doesn't have to be that way. The initiative is not as innovative as media coverage might suggest, as most higher education institutions already offer courses in English and mathematics.

In fact, many students recognize that both subjects are an integral element in being considered employable and choose to retake these exams. Some are able to pass on their second attempt, while others try it three times and can't get a C grade in any of the subjects. So what are we going to do with those who may have successfully completed a post-16 grade but can't get the precious C's in English and mathematics? Is their achievement worthless? Some may see this as mere picky, but in times of limited resources, schools and universities will be forced to make difficult decisions about whether they are able to provide the same level of support to students who cannot earn C grades and those who need to be pressured to do so. If we agree that our focus should be on students reaching grade C, we run the risk of leaving behind weaker students.

In addition, with Gove, there have been major changes in funding for post-16 education, leaving many sixth-grade schools and universities facing budget cuts of up to 15%. The policy, which begins this quarter, is worrying in its opacity on how this new initiative will be financed. The Association of Colleges estimates that 1,000 additional English and 1,100 mathematics teachers will be needed. Will institutions be provided with jackpots of extra money? In my experience, students who do not perform highly in a subject tend to face it with hatred, sometimes with passion, sometimes with reserve.

Their aversion to that topic and their desire for it to end can often lead to a dangerous lack of trust and disaffection with education. They don't need more of the same: a rapidly evolving prescriptive curriculum that culminates in an exam they think they're likely to fail. The government should provide increased funding, focus on smaller classes, and allow schools the freedom to move away from the curriculum when it suits the needs of their students. As it stands, Gove's plan risks further stigmatizing thousands of people looking for a better path through.

GCSE provides you with a solid foundation on which to build with more studies. Even if you're studying GCSE mathematics as a checkbox exercise, keep an open mind as it can significantly increase your chances of employment. As a general rule, most universities expect at least some C's in GCSE, especially in mathematics, English, and sometimes science. Learning is crucial for your personal development; it increases your confidence which is a common trait in those who are successful at work and in their personal lives - something that we all strive to have.

Math and English GCSEs are qualifications they rely on and are traditionally set as the benchmark for a number of job opportunities. However, GCSE degree equivalents are also a great way to demonstrate that you have the necessary knowledge to be an asset to your business. For many subjects, it is necessary to pass them in the GCSE in order to be able to study them at level A and consequently also at higher levels (such as a degree). The Beginner's Guide to Algebra states that 'the pure mathematician, like the musician, is a free creator of his world of ordered beauty'.

Now that the daily use of English and mathematical skills has been established, let's take a look at the more precise reasons why math and English skills are necessary to succeed and thrive in society. Everything you need to know about learning mathematics - whether it's basic primary mathematics or pre-algebra - many students in the UK have difficulty in arithmetic every year. Recent studies have shown that a particular part of the brain is activated when performing mental mathematics exercises; this is directly related to better emotional health. On a more serious level, crime can also become a problem; 65% of adult inmates have little mathematical skills.

If you've had a successful 20-year career in your industry and you're applying for CEO of a major company, you're not going to give a damn if you failed art at GCSE! Surprisingly, the percentage of students who pass GCSE Maths is 60%, of which only 10% achieve the best grades i. For these reasons, it is clear why many higher education and university courses require a good level of English and mathematics regardless of the subject you plan to study. It can be easy to forget how important it is to achieve a satisfactory grade in math, English and science; if you need help with a particular topic such as Mathematics and its subtopics you can search for materials and tools by topic.

Shahid Lakha
Shahid Lakha

Shahid Lakha is a seasoned educational consultant with a rich history in the independent education sector and EdTech. With a solid background in Physics, Shahid has cultivated a career that spans tutoring, consulting, and entrepreneurship. As an Educational Consultant at Spires Online Tutoring since October 2016, he has been instrumental in fostering educational excellence in the online tutoring space. Shahid is also the founder and director of Specialist Science Tutors, a tutoring agency based in West London, where he has successfully managed various facets of the business, including marketing, web design, and client relationships. His dedication to education is further evidenced by his role as a self-employed tutor, where he has been teaching Maths, Physics, and Engineering to students up to university level since September 2011. Shahid holds a Master of Science in Photon Science from the University of Manchester and a Bachelor of Science in Physics from the University of Bath.