Celebrating progress in Level 2 Further Mathematics
Every year, there are learners who choose to do more maths beyond GCSE.
They are the ones who stay behind after school, give up lunchtimes, or work through topics independently at home. They do it because they enjoy the challenge and want to see how far they can go.
In 2011, we started teaching Level 2 Further Mathematics (L2FM) for these students, giving them the opportunity to explore more advanced ideas beyond GCSE.
In many schools, L2FM sits outside the timetable. It’s something students choose to take on, in addition to their GCSEs.
While many begin with enthusiasm, it can be difficult to sustain that extra commitment as exams approach and pressure builds. Some learners decide to focus on their core GCSEs. When they do, the work they’ve already put into L2FM ends without reward.
This is where the Unit Award Scheme (UAS) can make a meaningful difference.
Rather than everything depending on the final qualification, UAS breaks L2FM into 12 units, each with its own certificate. As students complete a unit, they receive recognition for that achievement.
It means even if they don’t go on to finish the full course, the work they’ve done still counts. They leave with a record of what they have learned and the topics they’ve mastered.
By the end of the course, learners could have 12 UAS certificates alongside their Level 2 Further Mathematics qualification ”
Anna Berry (she / her) - Subject Lead - Maths
Anna Berry, our Subject Support Lead and former Head of Maths, explains:
“When I first learned about the Unit Award Scheme (UAS), I immediately saw how well it could support L2FM.
“I worked with the UAS team to map the entire Level 2 Further Mathematics specification into 12 units, so learners can gain certificates for the units they complete, even if they don’t finish the full qualification.
“For example, they could show a sixth-form provider they have completed a unit on differentiation when applying for A-level Maths.
“Seeing achievements build up, one unit at a time, could also provide extra motivation to continue. The units act as stepping stones towards the full award, and teachers can use the same resources, assessments and route map as usual.
“By the end of the course, learners could have 12 UAS certificates alongside their Level 2 Further Mathematics qualification.”
UAS fits around how L2FM is already taught. There is no need to change the course structure or introduce new resources.
Teachers can continue delivering the course as they do now, while giving students a clearer sense of progress along the way.
For students, each certificate is a clear marker of what they have achieved. It helps build confidence and maintain motivation, giving them a sense of progress as they work through the course.
For teachers, it provides a simple way to acknowledge commitment and keep students engaged, in the hope this encouragement supports them to complete the qualification they have started.