Course Start Date: August 2026

 

The National 5 Mathematics course builds on learners’ prior knowledge to develop confidence and competence in a broad range of mathematical skills. Learners develop logical reasoning, problem-solving and abstract thinking, using numbers and symbols to communicate ideas clearly and accurately.

The course develops essential mathematical techniques that support progression beyond National 5 and across other curriculum areas, including science, technology, health and wellbeing, and social studies. These skills are also valuable in real-life and workplace contexts.

Course Aims

• motivate and challenge candidates by enabling them to select and apply mathematical techniques in a variety of mathematical and real-life situations
• develop confidence in the subject and a positive attitude towards further study in mathematics
• develop skills in manipulation of abstract terms to generalise and to solve problems
• allow candidates to interpret, communicate and manage information in mathematical form: skills which are vital to scientific and technological research and development
• develop candidates’ skills in using mathematical language and in exploring mathematical ideas
• develop skills relevant to learning, life and work in an engaging and enjoyable way.

Assessment

To gain a course award you must complete the two components of the Course Assessment:

Component	Marks	Duration
Component 1: Question Paper 1 (non-calculator)	40	1 hour
Component 2: Question Paper 2	50	1. hour and 30 minutes

Required Course Materials

Students should have the following for each lesson; all other study materials will be provided.

• Textbook (TBA)

• A scientific calculator (preferably Casio fx-83GTCW)

• A jotter or notepaper for completing work by hand and taking notes

Prerequisites

• None

Course Fees

£995.00 per subject, per year.