NEO’s primary maths qualification framework. Foundation tier (4MA1F) and Higher tier (4MA1H) available. Modular assessment available. Each tier has two papers, both 2 hours, calculator allowed throughout.
The way mathematics is taught at NEO matters enormously. A learner who has experienced maths as a source of shame, failure, and humiliation does not need to be reintroduced to algebra through timed tests. The Foundation tier and the modular route are both designed to lower the assessment threshold; teaching pacing and Discovery Phase precede formal qualification entry.
Tiers and papers
- Foundation tier — Papers 1F and 2F, each 2 hours, 100 marks, 50% of grade. Targeted at grades 5–1.
- Higher tier — Papers 1H and 2H, each 2 hours, 100 marks, 50% of grade. Targeted at grades 9–4 (3 allowed). Higher tier assumes knowledge of all Foundation tier content.
Both tiers carry a formulae sheet (Foundation Appendix 4 / Higher Appendix 5).
Assessment Objectives
Edexcel’s three AOs are organised by content area, not by skill type:
- AO1 (Number and algebra; 57–63%) — covers content areas 1 (Number and the number system) and 2–3 (Equations, formulae, identities; sequences, functions, graphs)
- AO2 (Shape, space and measures; 22–28%) — covers content areas 4 (Geometry and trigonometry) and 5 (Vectors and transformation geometry)
- AO3 (Handling data; 12–18%) — covers content area 6 (Statistics and probability)
Cross-cutting capability weightings
Within those AOs, problem-solving and mathematical reasoning are weighted explicitly:
| Tier | Problem-solving | Mathematical reasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation | 25% | 15% |
| Higher | 30% | 20% |
These map onto the canonical Mathematical reasoning and problem-solving strand.
Tests canonical
Each AO page wikilinks to one or more canonical KS4 Maths strands.