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Today sees the launch of a public consultation on A level mathematics criteria by QCA (the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority). As the government agency for the development of qualifications, QCA is working with DCELLS in Wales and CCEA in Northern Ireland on criteria for revised A levels to start when the current specifications are no longer available.

QCA has worked with subject experts and representatives from the mathematics community, including teachers, subject associations, universities and awarding bodies, to develop draft criteria for consultation. The criteria set out the required knowledge, understanding and skills for AS and A levels in mathematics to help make sure these qualifications prepare learners for progression to higher education and employment.

Any individuals or organisations interested in the content of criteria for A levels in mathematics can contribute their views via the QCA website.

Andrew Hall, QCA's acting Chief Executive said:

"A levels must provide learners with the knowledge and skills they need to progress successfully into higher education, training or employment. The 'common core' of mathematics will provide all learners with a solid and shared foundation, and the increased focus on problem-solving and less structured questions will stretch and challenge learners at all grades, including A*.

"By building on curriculum and qualification developments for key stage 4, these qualifications will bring real benefits to learners and help them achieve their full potential. They will allow learners to follow their interests and will support learning in other subjects and other qualifications, such as the Advanced Diploma."

The deadline for responding to the consultation is Friday 9 July 2009. Following the consultation, the criteria will be amended, finalised and adopted formally by Ofqual as regulatory criteria. Awarding bodies will develop new specifications for accreditation by Ofqual. It is proposed that new specifications in mathematics and further mathematics will be taught from September 2012 and new specifications in use of mathematics and use of statistics will be taught from September 2011.

Notes to editors

1. View the draft A level subject criteria and consultation questionnaires.

2. The AS/A levels subjects in this consultation are: mathematics, further mathematics, use of mathematics and use of statistics.

3. Criteria for A levels in mathematics were last reviewed in 2002 following the introduction of the Curriculum 2000 reforms. Specifications for mathematics and further mathematics based on these criteria started in 2004. Criteria for other A level subjects were revised in 2006 and specifications based on these criteria started in September 2008.

4. QCA works with DCELLS in Wales and CCEA in Northern Ireland to develop the criteria for GCSE and A level qualifications. Ofqual, the independent regulator, DCELLS in Wales and CCEA in Northern Ireland are responsible for regulating qualifications against the criteria.

5. For further information contact QCA media relations on 020 7509 6789 or, outside office hours, 07798 924552. Members of the public should contact the QCA enquiries line on 020 7509 5556.