Overview
This course is for adults who want to improve their maths skills, gain a nationally recognised qualification, progress into further or higher education, or improve their employment prospects. It is suitable for learners who did not achieve a GCSE maths at school or who want to build confidence and practical maths skills for everyday life.
You will study all core GCSE Foundation Maths topics, including number, algebra, ratio and proportion, statistics, probability, geometry and measures. The course follows the Edexcel GCSE Maths (Foundation) specification and prepares you for grades 1–5 using the current national grading system.
You will learn online through small, supportive classes using Google Classroom. Lessons include whole‑class teaching, guided practice and individual activities, with opportunities to work independently or in breakout rooms. Friendly, experienced tutors provide regular guidance, feedback and support throughout the course.
Entry requirements
This course is free if you do not already have a GCSE maths qualification or if you achieved a grade 3 (or below) under the current grading system. Before enrolling, you will meet with a Learning Advisor and complete two short assessments to confirm that this is the right course for you.
Assessment criteria
Assessment is by three written exams at the end of the course. You will receive ongoing feedback during the year to monitor your progress. Provisional summer 2027 exam dates are 14th May, 27th May and 14th June. Although this is an online course, all exams will be held at your local Learn Devon centre under exam conditions.
What do I need?
As this is an online course, you will need a good reliable internet connection and a computer laptop or tablet to connect to the lessons. YOU CANNOT DO THIS COURSE USING A MOBILE PHONE. You will also need a pen, pencil and a notebook, as well as the items listed in the equipment list below. Squared paper is recommended to help organise your maths work but is not essential.
You will need a Maths geometry set containing a protractor and a pair of compasses, a 30cm ruler and a scientific calculator. We recommend the Casio fx-83GT PLUS but any similar models will work just as well. The following textbooks may be useful on your course. Please check with your tutor if they will be required or just recommended: Pearson Edexcel GCSE (9-1) Mathematics Foundation Student Book 1 9781292346144 and Book 2 9781292346380
The course starts in the first week of September. You must be able to attend weekly sessions and complete weekly homework. Homework is essential for practising skills, checking understanding and tracking progress. Your first four sessions will help determine whether GCSE Maths or Functional Skills is the most suitable pathway.
What can I do next?
A GCSE in maths is a nationally recognised qualification valued by employers and education providers. It can support progression into further or higher education, improve job opportunities and is required for many training programmes, apprenticeships and degree‑level courses.
Funding information
This course is being funded by the Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority (DTCCA). To be able to provide you with this opportunity we need to ensure that you are eligible for funding and have to collect personal data for government monitoring of funding. You must live in Devon and have been normally resident in the UK for the past 3 years and have a legal right to receive this funding. In addition to this you must NOT have previously achieved a grade 4 (C) or above in this subject and take part in an initial assessment to discover your current level. If you are not eligible for any reason, we will have to charge you fees to be able to provide this learning opportunity.
