Rationale

Free-standing Mathematics Qualifications were developed by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) to encourage more post-16 students to study mathematics that is appropriate to their current and future needs. They are now available for students of all ages.

When studying a FSMQ students will:

• apply mathematics in contexts relating to their other studies or interests;
• interpret and communicate the results of mathematical work;
• develop the ability to work independently with mathematics.

The levels
FSMQs are available at three levels:

• Foundation
  includes maths equivalent to that found in GCSE (grade D and below).

• Intermediate
  includes maths equivalent to that found in GCSE (grade C and above).

• Advanced
  includes maths equivalent to that found in GCE AS/A Levels in Mathematics.

Student Groups
FSMQs can be used in a variety of different ways by a variety of students. They are equally of value to students following 'vocational', 'academic' or 'mixed' study programmes or completing work-based learning courses.

In particular, they are likely to appeal to:

• students wanting to achieve success in some mathematics equivalent in demand to GCSE;
• students who already have GCSE maths (at grade C or above) who can use FSMQs to reinforce or extend particular areas of maths that are relevant to their other studies;
• students studying A levels or Vocational A levels that need mathematical back-up;
• students studying A levels or Vocational A levels who have enjoyed and been successful in mathematics, but have chosen non-mathematical options for their further studies. FSMQs allow the possibility of continuing to study maths in small discrete units.
• low ability students who wish to study some real-life mathematics that will be useful to them in their future lives;
• students on ACCESS or Foundation courses;
• employees (NVQ students and others);
• Modern Apprentices and National Trainees
• adult returners
• students in Higher Education who may use them as revision units.

Assessment
The assessment of this qualification has two components, portfolio and written examinations, both of which will encourage students to apply mathematics to solve problems. (However please note that assessment is by examination only in some of the current FSMQ pilots.)