Statistics is a branch of mathematics that deals with variability and uncertainty in various fields, from determining future stock requirements for large supermarket chains to evaluating the effectiveness of new drugs in curing illnesses. An A level in statistics covers the collection, analysis, interpretation, and presentation of data. It builds on foundational concepts like averages and progresses to more complex tasks, such as testing whether observed results, like an increase in the amount of rainfall in a particular year, are statistically significant.  

Using and understanding data is becoming increasingly important in many areas of study and employment. Understanding of statistics is a crucial skill - statistics A level aims to give you the tools needed to help you prepare for higher education and the workplace.

You will use a variety of methods and techniques to help you develop and understand the concepts involved. These will include class discussions, investigations, checking progress with mini-whiteboards and independent practice of skills.

There will be three 2 hour external exams in May/June at the end of year two.  There is no coursework.

Paper 1 “Data and Probability”, 2 hours long. Questions may be on

• Probability
• Probability distributions
• Binomial, normal, Poisson and exponential distributions
• Bayes theorem
• Experimental design.

Paper 2 “Statistical Inference”, 2 hours long. Questions may be on

• Correlation and linear regression,
• Hypotheses testing
• Contingency tables
• Paired tests
• Goodness of fit

Paper 3 is on “Statistics in Practice”.  Questions may be set on any of the topics within the specification, including the statistical enquiry cycle (SEC).

A level statistics might appeal to students who are more interested in using mathematics to solve real life problems involving data or probability. It sits well with subjects such as A level biology, psychology, geography, business studies and economics.

A level statistics is not suitable for those wishing to study for degrees in mathematics or for many physics, engineering or computer science degree courses.

Many students have found A level statistics valuable when taking degrees in psychology, business studies, geography, biology and anthropology. Some students have gone straight into employment in areas such as finance.

Understanding statistics is important in many different sectors - business, finance, education, science and pharmaceuticals are just some examples.

Please see below for careers and labour market information for statistics - use the refresh buttons to find out about different courses and careers, and use the left and right arrows to view more detailed information.

You can find the prep work for this course at prepwork.farnborough.ac.uk.

Q: Is statistics A level easier than maths A level? 
A:The two courses are quite different from each other. Students who find working accurately through problems involving algebra difficult, for example, may find statistics A level more accessible than maths A level.

Q: Can I study both maths and statistics A levels? 
A: No, students must choose one or other course.

Q: What are classes like?
A:  In a 90 minute lesson you will enjoy a variety of activities including working in pairs on mini-whiteboards, working in groups on a board on the wall, and working individually to consolidate your learning. 

Q: Is statistics A level suitable for students planning to study medicine at university?
A: We would recommend potential medics study A level maths rather than statistics. This is because typical medicine offers ask for As or A*s in chemistry and one of biology, physics or maths.

Q:  Will there be any additional help?
A: We offer video solutions to some homework exercises to help if you get stuck, as well as drop in workshops.