Mathematics & Numeracy

Mathematics will develop essential skills for further learning, as well as skills for life and work.


Learners will acquire basic, operation and extended mathematical and numerical skills and apply them in a variety of real-life situations. In addition, learners will develop reasoning skills and will gain experience in making informed decisions. Learning mathematics develops logical reasoning, analysis, problem-solving skills, creativity, and the ability to think in abstract ways. It uses a universal language of numbers and symbols, which allows us to communicate ideas in a concise, unambiguous, and rigorous way. Mathematics is also great fun!

S1, S2 and S3 Broad General Education

During the Broad General Education phase of S1 to S3 pupils will work on Curriculum for Excellence Experiences and Outcomes from level 1 through to level 4.

You can read through the full Numeracy and Mathematics Curriculum by downloading the document below:

External Link Icon Numeracy and Mathematics Curriculum

S4, S5 and S6 Mathematics

National 4 Maths covers the key skills for Numeracy, Algebra and Trigonometry over the 3 units

  • Numeracy
  • Relationships
  • Expressions & Formula

External Link Icon National 4 Mathematics Course Specification

National 5 Maths covers the key skills for Numeracy, Algebra and Trigonometry over the 3 units

  • Numeracy
  • Relationships
  • Expressions & Formula

External Link Icon National 5 Mathematics Course Specification

Higher Mathematics allows pupils to select and apply operational skills in algebra, geometry, trigonometry, calculus and statistics within mathematical contexts. It is a highly desirable qualifications for University and the wider world of work.

External Link Icon Higher Mathematics Course Specification

The Advanced Higher Mathematics course develops, deepends and extends the mathematical skills necessary at this level and beyond. Throughout this course, candidates acquire and apply operational skills necessary for exploring complex mathematical ideas. Candidates select and apply mathematical techniques and develop their understanding of the interdepencies within mathematics.

External Link Icon Advanced Higher Mathematics Course Specification

S4, S5 & S6 Applications of Mathematics

National 3 Applications of Mathematics covers the key life skills for

  • Numeracy
  • Shape, Space and Measure
  • Managing Money and Data

External Link Icon National 3 Applications of Mathematics Course Specification

National 4 Applications of Mathematics covers the key life skills for

  • Numeracy
  • Managing Finance and Statistics
  • Geometry and Measure

External Link Icon National 4 Applications of Mathematics Course Specification

National 5 Applications of Mathematics is an alternative to National 5 Mathematics and focuses on more real life Mathematical skills, in place of Algebra and Trigonometry. It is widely accepted by colleges and universities. The units are split into:

  • Numeracy
  • Managing Finance and Statistics
  • Geometry and Measure

External Link Icon National 5 Applications of Mathematics Course Specification

The Higher Applications of Mathematics course focuses on developing the mathematical and analytical skills required in society and for the future workforce. The course develops the candidates' quantitative and mathematical literacy, problem-solving and reasoning skills as they apply mathematics in real-life contexts. The course has a final exam as well as a project and uses computer software as part of the statistical elements of the course. This is highly desirable in the modern workplace.

External Link Icon Higher Applications of Mathematics Course Specification

The Maths Department at St. David's RC High School are always happy to help when any students want or need any extra support. There are additional study support options available at lunch times and after school.

St. David's Maths Twitter