A-Level Mathematics: Where Next?

Since the introduction in 1978 of the idea of a “common-core” for A-level mathematics, there was been a continuing debate over the structure and content of the subject at this level. Much of this debate remains pertinent in 1989: see, for example, [10], [15] and [28]. However, the setting-up of the Higginson Committee to review A-levels in March 1987 had the effect of putting much of the discussion specific to mathematics on the back-boiler. It is well known that the committee’s report of May 1988 recommended a wider subject-spread, roughly speaking on the model of the International Baccalaureate, and that its immediate rejection by the government created considerable furore in educational circles.