Topics in mathematics that every educated person needs to know to process, evaluate, and understand the numerical and graphical information in our society. Applications of mathematics in problem-solving, finance, probability, statistics, geometry, population growth.

Mathematics - General

O Level Mathematics Syllabus D (formerly ‘Calculator Version’) encourages the development of mathematical knowledge as a key life skill, and as a basis for more advanced study. The syllabus aims to build learners' confidence by helping them develop a feel for numbers, patterns and relationships, and places a strong emphasis on solving problems and presenting and interpreting results. 

Learners gain an understanding of how to communicate and reason using mathematical concepts, and the syllabus also ensures learners are confident in the use of an electronic calculator (which is essential for one of the two final examinations).

Mathematics - Additional

O Level Additional Mathematics supports learners in building competency, confidence and fluency in their use of techniques and mathematical understanding. This course helps learners to develop a feel for quantity, patterns and relationships. Learners will develop their reasoning, problem-solving and analytical skills in a variety of contexts.

It provides a strong foundation of mathematical knowledge both for candidates studying mathematics at a higher level and those who will require mathematics to support skills in other subjects. It is designed to stretch the most able candidates and provides a smooth transition to Cambridge AS & A Level Mathematics

 

History is the study of change over time, and it covers all aspects of human society.

The O Level History syllabus looks at some of the major international issues of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries and covers the history of particular regions and events in more depth.

The syllabus:

• enables learners to develop historical knowledge and the skills required for studying historical evidence
• gives flexibility for teachers to develop a course that interests and stimulates their learners
• provides a sound basis for further study and encourages a lifelong interest in the subject.

O Level English Language is designed for learners who speak English at home or at school, at near first language level.

The course enables learners to:

• develop the ability to communicate clearly, accurately and effectively when writing
• use a wide range of vocabulary, and the correct grammar, spelling and punctuation
• develop a personal style and an awareness of the audience being addressed.

Learners are also encouraged to read widely, both for their own enjoyment and to further their awareness of the ways in which English can be used. Cambridge O Level English Language also develops more general analysis and communication skills such as inference, and the ability to order facts and present opinions effectively.

The syllabus complements other areas of study by encouraging skills of more general application.

By considering agriculture as an applied science, learners gain an understanding of basic agricultural principles and skills through extensive practical experience. The syllabus develops learners' ability to apply a scientific approach to the study of topics such as crop and livestock husbandry, farm structure and machinery, and agricultural economics. 

As a result, learners gain a positive attitude towards farming and rural development, and appreciate the ways in which improved agricultural practice can be used to alleviate the problems of famine and malnutrition.

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O Level Biblical Studies promotes an understanding and appreciation of the Bible, studied in a Christian context. The syllabus:

• enables learners to have a broad understanding of the Christian message found in the Bible and its ongoing relevance for modern-day Christians
• encourages learners to have an enquiring and critical approach to the study of biblical texts, the ideas they contain, and the ways in which they may be interpreted
• enables learners to develop an informed response to issues arising out of the study of the biblical texts.

The syllabus develops a set of transferable skills including handling data, practical problem solving and applying the scientific method. Students learn the core principles and concepts that are fundamental to biology, chemistry and physics with a strong focus on practical skills.

The emphasis throughout is on developing an understanding of the science relevant to everyday life, and the associated scientific attitudes such as concern for accuracy and precision, objectivity, integrity, enquiry, initiative and inventiveness. Learners develop the scientific knowledge and associated transferrable skills that give a firm foundation for progression to further studies in science or vocational careers.

An introduction to the principles, and practice, of accounting. Emphasis is placed on the fundamentals of recording, adjusting, analyzing, and reporting financial information in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.

Includes the study of the accounting for cash, accounts receivable, inventory, fixed assets, accounts payable, liabilities, revenues and expenses.

The O Level Accounting syllabus introduces learners to the theory and concepts of accounting and the ways in which accounting is used in a variety of modern economic and business contexts. Learners focus on the skills of recording, reporting, presenting and interpreting financial information and build an ideal foundation both for further study and for a future career within the profession.

O Level Commerce learners gain an introduction to the nature of commercial activities, how these activities are affected by changes in the commercial environment, and the impact they have on national and international consumers, producers, retailers and wholesalers. The syllabus looks at the purpose and function of major commercial activities, examining language, concepts and decision-making procedures, and the importance of communication and documentation. 

Learners study the nature and importance of innovation and change, and develop complementary skills of enquiry, interpretation and communication.

The O Level Food and Nutrition syllabus introduces both the theoretical and practical aspects of buying and preparing food. Dealing with diet and health in everyday life, learners gain an understanding of the nutritional value of basic foods and develop the skills required to produce a balanced family meal. Consumer awareness is encouraged, as are high standards of personal and kitchen hygiene, especially when learners put their knowledge into practice in order to produce creative and enjoyable dishes.

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Through the Cambridge O Level Geography syllabus, learners will develop a 'sense of place' by looking at the world around them on a local, regional and global scale. Learners examine a range of natural and man-made environments, and learn about some of the processes that affected their development. They will also look at the ways in which people interact with their environment, and the opportunities and challenges an environment can present, thereby gaining a deeper insight into the different communities and cultures that exist around the world.

O Level Computer Science helps learners develop an interest in computational thinking and an understanding of the principles of problem-solving using computers. They apply this understanding to create computer-based solutions to problems using algorithms and a high-level programming language. Learners also develop a range of technical skills, and the ability to effectively test and evaluate computing solutions.

Studying Cambridge O Level Computer Science helps learners appreciate current and emerging computing technologies, the benefits of their use and recognise their potential risks. It provides an ideal foundation for progression to Cambridge International AS & A Level and is valuable for other areas of study and everyday life.

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By following this theoretical and practical syllabus, learners cover a range of topics including use of textiles, style and choice of clothing, use of patterns, fitting and assembling garments, and how to care for clothing. The aim is to develop learners' creative and aesthetic awareness, stimulating an enjoyment in the creative use of textiles. 

Learners develop the practical skills essential for further study, which will also last a lifetime. Through their studies, learners also develop a discriminating and informed approach to the marketing of clothes, learning how to assess suitability and recognise quality, in the context of fashion and textiles.

The O Level Economics syllabus develops an understanding of economic theory, terminology and principles. Learners study the economics of different countries and how these interrelate. They also learn to work with simple economics data and to use the tools of economic analysis. Learners apply understanding of economics to current economic issues. 

The Cambridge O Level Economics syllabus provides a foundation for further study, including Cambridge International AS & A Level Economics, or the equivalent.

Students learn how to explain and analyse economic issues and arguments, evaluate economic information, and organise, present and communicate ideas and judgements clearly.

The syllabus covers a range of fundamental economic ideas, including an introduction to the price system and government intervention, international trade and exchange rates, the measurement of employment and inflation, and the causes and consequences of inflation. Students also study the theory of the firm, market failure, macroeconomic theory and policy, and economic growth and development.

A Level History is a flexible and wide-ranging syllabus covering modern history in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. The syllabus builds upon skills gained at O Level and develops lifelong skills including understanding issues and themes within a historical period.

The emphasis is again on both historical knowledge and on the skills required for historical research. Learners develop an understanding of cause and effect, continuity and change, similarity and difference, and use historical evidence as part of their studies. Both at AS and A Level learners can select from topics on African, European, American or International history.

Teachers choose which periods to focus on, allowing them to build a course that reflects their learners' interests and staff specialisms, or which is relevant to the local or regional context.

The syllabus enables students to understand and appreciate the nature and scope of business, and the role it plays in society. It encourages students to examine the process of decision-making in a dynamic and changing business environment and to develop critical understanding of business organisations. They learn about business and its environment, human resource management, marketing, operations management and finance and accounting. At A Level, students also learn how to develop a business strategy.

In a rapidly changing world, AS and A Level Sociology offers learners the opportunity not only to explore the processes that are shaping current trends, but also to develop an understanding of the complexity and diversity of human societies and their continuities with the past. 

The study of sociology stimulates awareness of contemporary social, cultural and political issues, and focuses on the importance of examining these issues in a rigorous, reasoned and analytical way.

The syllabus engages students with the relevance and applicability of accounting in real-world contexts. Students will explore the role and responsibilities of the accountant, and study areas such as financial accounting and cost and management accounting. 

Studying this subject helps students to understand, apply, analyse and evaluate accounting information to help decision-making in business and communicate information to stakeholders. These transferable skills are an ideal foundation for further study and a career within accounting or related professions.

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A Level Mathematics develops a set of transferable skills. These include the skill of working with mathematical information, as well as the ability to think logically and independently, consider accuracy, model situations mathematically, analyse results and reflect on findings. 

Learners can apply these skills across a wide range of subjects and these skills equip them well for progression to higher education or directly into employment. 

At AS level, teachers can choose from three different routes to AS Level Mathematics: Pure Mathematics only, Pure Mathematics and Mechanics, or Pure Mathematics and Probability & Statistics. 

At A Level, teachers can also choose from different routes to A Level Mathematics depending on the choice of applied mathematics (Mechanics and/or Probability and Statistics).

The Divinity syllabus covers three core areas. In the first, The Prophets of the Old Testament, learners gain an understanding of the way the prophets maintained the religious faith of Ancient Israel, while also studying a significant part of the Jewish and Christian Bibles. 

Learners consider pre-canonical prophets, pre-exilic prophets, and study and comment on specific passages. They also study The Four Gospels, in order to gain a scholarly understanding of the life and teaching of Jesus. 

Finally, in studying The Apostolic Age, learners develop an understanding of the history and development of the early Christian Church, as well as studying the authorship, composition and purpose of the Acts and Epistles detailed in the syllabus.

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The Geography syllabus builds upon skills gained at GCSE (or equivalent) level study. Learners widen their knowledge and understanding of the subject, while developing their investigative abilities and their evaluation and decision-making skills. 

The syllabus is wide-ranging and comprises a variety of options. For example, learners can study topics such as hydrology and fluvial geomorphology, atmosphere and weather, rocks and weathering, population change and settlement dynamics. The syllabus considers a range of environments, from tropical to arid, and learners can also study subjects such as environmental management, global interdependence and economic transition.

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AS & A Level Computer Science encourages learners to meet the needs of higher education courses in computer science as well as twenty-first century digital employers. It encourages leaders to think creatively, through applying practical programming solutions, demonstrating that they are effective uses of technology.

Learners develop computational thinking & programming skills to solve computer science problems. AS and A Level Computer Science will help learners develop a range of skills such as thinking creatively, analytically, logically and critically. They will also be able to appreciate the ethical issues that arise with current and emerging computing technologies.

A Level Further Mathematics develops and extends a set of transferable skills. These include the skill of working with mathematical information, as well as the ability to think logically and independently, consider accuracy, model situations mathematically, analyse results and reflect on findings. 

Learners can apply these skills across a wide range of subjects and these skills equip them well for progression to higher education or directly into employment. Some universities prefer applicants for degrees in mathematics and mathematical/scientific subjects to have an AS or A Level Further Mathematics or equivalent qualification. 

This syllabus is intended for high ability learners who have achieved, or are likely to achieve, a high grade in the A Level Mathematics examination. Knowledge of the whole content of the A Level Mathematics syllabus is assumed. Learners will find that the additional time spent studying Further Mathematics will support their understanding of A Level Mathematics. 

The AS Level can be taken at the halfway point in an A Level or as a stand-alone qualification. The AS Level allows a choice of applied mathematics: all candidates study Further Pure Mathematics 1 and choose from either Further Probability & Statistics or Further Mechanics.