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Year 12 Seeking A* Help: Maths, Further Maths, CS, Economics & EPQ

Title: Year 12 Seeking A* Help: Maths, Further Maths, CS, Economics & EPQ

Hey everyone,

I’m currently in Year 12, and I’ve set myself a very ambitious goal: I want to achieve A*s in all my A-level subjects Mathematics, Further Mathematics (OCR B MEI), Computer Science (AQA), Economics (AQA), and EPQ (Extended Project Qualification).

I know it’s not going to be easy, especially since OCR B MEI is considered one of the most challenging exam boards for Maths and Further Maths. But I’m genuinely motivated to push myself to the limit. My dream is to either study Mathematics and Computer Science at university or go into a degree apprenticeship in Artificial Intelligence or Software Engineering.

At the moment, I’m struggling with programming in Python for Computer Science, as well as some advanced topics in Maths, Further Maths, and even project management/research skills for EPQ. One of the biggest challenges I face is that my teachers aren’t very helpful lessons often don’t go into enough depth, explanations can be rushed, and I frequently feel like I’m left figuring things out on my own. Because of this, I’ve decided to take full responsibility for my learning outside of school and actively seek guidance from others who’ve been through these courses.

💡 What I’m asking for:
I’d really appreciate any help, advice, or resources from students, graduates, or anyone with experience in these subjects or exam boards. Specifically, I’m looking for:

📘 For OCR B (MEI) Maths and Further Maths:

Revision notes, summary sheets, or complete topic guides

Practice questions, topic-by-topic worksheets, and exam-style questions

Past papers, mark schemes, or unofficial question banks

YouTube channels, websites, or online courses that explain topics in detail (especially pure maths, mechanics, and statistics)

Study/revision strategies that helped you achieve A or A* grades

💻 For AQA Computer Science:

Python resources (tutorials, problem sets, past coding exam questions, project ideas)

Explanations for tricky topics like algorithms, computational logic, and theory of computation

Revision websites or textbooks that actually make the content understandable

Tips for mastering the NEA project (I’d like to start preparing early)

📈 For AQA Economics:

Essay plans, example essays, and evaluation techniques

Revision guides or online resources that explain real-world application

Tips on how to link economic theory to current examples for higher evaluation marks

📑 For EPQ:

Guidance on choosing strong topics and refining research questions

Advice on project planning, research methods, and presentation skills

Examples of successful EPQs or resources to get top marks

I don’t mind whether the resources are free or paid I’m happy to invest if something genuinely helps. Please also share any advice about time management, study techniques, or revision timetables that worked for you.

🎯 My Long-Term Goals:
I’m aiming to apply for competitive universities or degree apprenticeships in fields like:

Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning Engineering

Software Engineering / Data Science

Mathematics and Computer Science (BSc or MEng)

If anyone has experience applying for full scholarships, bursaries, or degree apprenticeships in these fields, please let me know how you approached it, what qualifications or extracurriculars helped, and any opportunities I should look into (both in the UK and internationally).

🙏 Final Thoughts:
I know this post is quite long, but I wanted to express how serious I am about achieving my goals. I really want to learn from others and build a community where knowledge is shared rather than gatekeep. My teachers haven’t been able to provide the support I need, so I’m relying on this community to guide me, share resources, and offer practical advice.

If you’ve done these A-levels, know someone who has, or have experience with scholarships, EPQ, or degree apprenticeships, please share your advice or tag others who might help. I’d also love to connect with peers to exchange resources, form study groups, or just motivate each other.

Thank you so much for reading and helping me out. Every bit of guidance matters!

A very determined Year 12 student chasing As and big dreams!* 🚀

Reply 1

Hiya!

I'm in Year 13 doing AQA Econ. I'll just say you're doing exactly the right thing with those activates, keep it up.

Possibly the best way to maximise marks and minimise revision time is to do practice papers as you can know all the content but falter when it comes to exam technique; marks can be gathered by learning common evaluations and points for analysis. For instance, many, many extracts (edit: in micro) you could get can all be linked back to the concept of market failure.
(edited 1 month ago)

Reply 2

Original post
by Jaa_
Hiya!
I'm in Year 13 doing AQA Econ. I'll just say you're doing exactly the right thing with those activates, keep it up.
Possibly the best way to maximise marks and minimise revision time is to do practice papers as you can know all the content but falter when it comes to exam technique; marks can be gathered by learning common evaluations and points for analysis. For instance, many, many extracts (edit: in micro) you could get can all be linked back to the concept of market failure.

who should i watch for economics or should i just memorize mark scheme for essays as I'm really lost and lazy for economics ibr:smile:

Reply 3

Original post
by nabilmusse449
who should i watch for economics or should i just memorize mark scheme for essays as I'm really lost and lazy for economics ibr:smile:

Memorising mark schemes I find is a bit pointless as I'd say its better to learn the techniques it references. But memorising it could help in an exam to have a 'question checklist' to make sure you've covered all relevant points.

For who to watch, EconPlusDal is a go to. While not for A-level, Jacob Clifford is a very solid channel. For really in depth videos beyond A-level, the micro and macro lectures from MIT OpenCourseWare are fantastic.

Reply 4

Original post
by Jaa_
Memorising mark schemes I find is a bit pointless as I'd say its better to learn the techniques it references. But memorising it could help in an exam to have a 'question checklist' to make sure you've covered all relevant points.
For who to watch, EconPlusDal is a go to. While not for A-level, Jacob Clifford is a very solid channel. For really in depth videos beyond A-level, the micro and macro lectures from MIT OpenCourseWare are fantastic.

how about uplearn for economics and what about alevel maths and further maths and computer science

Reply 5

Original post
by nabilmusse449
how about uplearn for economics and what about alevel maths and further maths and computer science

I haven't tried Unlearn, sorry! My other subjects are Politics and Sociology so I can't comment on Maths, FM, and Comp Sci. Sorry!

Reply 6

Original post
by nabilmusse449
Title: Year 12 Seeking A* Help: Maths, Further Maths, CS, Economics & EPQ
Hey everyone,
I’m currently in Year 12, and I’ve set myself a very ambitious goal: I want to achieve A*s in all my A-level subjects Mathematics, Further Mathematics (OCR B MEI), Computer Science (AQA), Economics (AQA), and EPQ (Extended Project Qualification).
I know it’s not going to be easy, especially since OCR B MEI is considered one of the most challenging exam boards for Maths and Further Maths. But I’m genuinely motivated to push myself to the limit. My dream is to either study Mathematics and Computer Science at university or go into a degree apprenticeship in Artificial Intelligence or Software Engineering.
At the moment, I’m struggling with programming in Python for Computer Science, as well as some advanced topics in Maths, Further Maths, and even project management/research skills for EPQ. One of the biggest challenges I face is that my teachers aren’t very helpful lessons often don’t go into enough depth, explanations can be rushed, and I frequently feel like I’m left figuring things out on my own. Because of this, I’ve decided to take full responsibility for my learning outside of school and actively seek guidance from others who’ve been through these courses.
💡 What I’m asking for:
I’d really appreciate any help, advice, or resources from students, graduates, or anyone with experience in these subjects or exam boards. Specifically, I’m looking for:
📘 For OCR B (MEI) Maths and Further Maths:
Revision notes, summary sheets, or complete topic guides
Practice questions, topic-by-topic worksheets, and exam-style questions
Past papers, mark schemes, or unofficial question banks
YouTube channels, websites, or online courses that explain topics in detail (especially pure maths, mechanics, and statistics)
Study/revision strategies that helped you achieve A or A* grades
💻 For AQA Computer Science:
Python resources (tutorials, problem sets, past coding exam questions, project ideas)
Explanations for tricky topics like algorithms, computational logic, and theory of computation
Revision websites or textbooks that actually make the content understandable
Tips for mastering the NEA project (I’d like to start preparing early)
📈 For AQA Economics:
Essay plans, example essays, and evaluation techniques
Revision guides or online resources that explain real-world application
Tips on how to link economic theory to current examples for higher evaluation marks
📑 For EPQ:
Guidance on choosing strong topics and refining research questions
Advice on project planning, research methods, and presentation skills
Examples of successful EPQs or resources to get top marks
I don’t mind whether the resources are free or paid I’m happy to invest if something genuinely helps. Please also share any advice about time management, study techniques, or revision timetables that worked for you.
🎯 My Long-Term Goals:
I’m aiming to apply for competitive universities or degree apprenticeships in fields like:
Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning Engineering
Software Engineering / Data Science
Mathematics and Computer Science (BSc or MEng)
If anyone has experience applying for full scholarships, bursaries, or degree apprenticeships in these fields, please let me know how you approached it, what qualifications or extracurriculars helped, and any opportunities I should look into (both in the UK and internationally).
🙏 Final Thoughts:
I know this post is quite long, but I wanted to express how serious I am about achieving my goals. I really want to learn from others and build a community where knowledge is shared rather than gatekeep. My teachers haven’t been able to provide the support I need, so I’m relying on this community to guide me, share resources, and offer practical advice.
If you’ve done these A-levels, know someone who has, or have experience with scholarships, EPQ, or degree apprenticeships, please share your advice or tag others who might help. I’d also love to connect with peers to exchange resources, form study groups, or just motivate each other.
Thank you so much for reading and helping me out. Every bit of guidance matters!
A very determined Year 12 student chasing As and big dreams!* 🚀


Ok, the fact that you already seem very disciplined is a great start. Keep this up and you’ll make it into whatever uni u want as long as you don’t burn out. They have admissions tests , so I would try to learn the whole of pure A level maths asap, and do like one question a day throughout the year for the MAT , TMUA or STEP depending on the one you choose. Im doing maths , fm and physics + EPQ and AEA. For my EPQ I made an artefact on a cs projectI did , and I’ve been doing a level further maths lightly out of interest since year 9, currently in year 13 and absolutely struggling with the admissions tests that I mentioned , I may just be stupid yk …..but the advice from me would to do as much maths and making programming projects as you can, because at the end of the day that’s what unis and degree apprenticeships will see. For DAs in specific , take work experience , LinkedIn and networking seriously, always be open to ask questions and have a plan ..sort of like what u did by this post , I respect the ambition , best of luck , I very rarely reply this much to random online ****

Reply 7

Original post
by nabilmusse449
Title: Year 12 Seeking A* Help: Maths, Further Maths, CS, Economics & EPQ
Hey everyone,
I’m currently in Year 12, and I’ve set myself a very ambitious goal: I want to achieve A*s in all my A-level subjects Mathematics, Further Mathematics (OCR B MEI), Computer Science (AQA), Economics (AQA), and EPQ (Extended Project Qualification).
I know it’s not going to be easy, especially since OCR B MEI is considered one of the most challenging exam boards for Maths and Further Maths. But I’m genuinely motivated to push myself to the limit. My dream is to either study Mathematics and Computer Science at university or go into a degree apprenticeship in Artificial Intelligence or Software Engineering.
At the moment, I’m struggling with programming in Python for Computer Science, as well as some advanced topics in Maths, Further Maths, and even project management/research skills for EPQ. One of the biggest challenges I face is that my teachers aren’t very helpful lessons often don’t go into enough depth, explanations can be rushed, and I frequently feel like I’m left figuring things out on my own. Because of this, I’ve decided to take full responsibility for my learning outside of school and actively seek guidance from others who’ve been through these courses.
💡 What I’m asking for:
I’d really appreciate any help, advice, or resources from students, graduates, or anyone with experience in these subjects or exam boards. Specifically, I’m looking for:
📘 For OCR B (MEI) Maths and Further Maths:
Revision notes, summary sheets, or complete topic guides
Practice questions, topic-by-topic worksheets, and exam-style questions
Past papers, mark schemes, or unofficial question banks
YouTube channels, websites, or online courses that explain topics in detail (especially pure maths, mechanics, and statistics)
Study/revision strategies that helped you achieve A or A* grades
💻 For AQA Computer Science:
Python resources (tutorials, problem sets, past coding exam questions, project ideas)
Explanations for tricky topics like algorithms, computational logic, and theory of computation
Revision websites or textbooks that actually make the content understandable
Tips for mastering the NEA project (I’d like to start preparing early)
📈 For AQA Economics:
Essay plans, example essays, and evaluation techniques
Revision guides or online resources that explain real-world application
Tips on how to link economic theory to current examples for higher evaluation marks
📑 For EPQ:
Guidance on choosing strong topics and refining research questions
Advice on project planning, research methods, and presentation skills
Examples of successful EPQs or resources to get top marks
I don’t mind whether the resources are free or paid I’m happy to invest if something genuinely helps. Please also share any advice about time management, study techniques, or revision timetables that worked for you.
🎯 My Long-Term Goals:
I’m aiming to apply for competitive universities or degree apprenticeships in fields like:
Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning Engineering
Software Engineering / Data Science
Mathematics and Computer Science (BSc or MEng)
If anyone has experience applying for full scholarships, bursaries, or degree apprenticeships in these fields, please let me know how you approached it, what qualifications or extracurriculars helped, and any opportunities I should look into (both in the UK and internationally).
🙏 Final Thoughts:
I know this post is quite long, but I wanted to express how serious I am about achieving my goals. I really want to learn from others and build a community where knowledge is shared rather than gatekeep. My teachers haven’t been able to provide the support I need, so I’m relying on this community to guide me, share resources, and offer practical advice.
If you’ve done these A-levels, know someone who has, or have experience with scholarships, EPQ, or degree apprenticeships, please share your advice or tag others who might help. I’d also love to connect with peers to exchange resources, form study groups, or just motivate each other.
Thank you so much for reading and helping me out. Every bit of guidance matters!
A very determined Year 12 student chasing As and big dreams!* 🚀

A lot of what you are looking for is on exam board websites e,g. the spec, past papers, mark schemes and examiners reports.

Have you googled for EPQs? I'm surprised your school is encouraging 4 plus EPQ - it's too much.

Reply 8

I'm assuming your ChatGPT-generated post actually contains the things you need help on?
If so, for CS, I would first look at past paper questions for AQA. If you have a basic understanding of Python already, try and attempt them. If not, I would just wait for your teachers to go over them and do further improvement after you've learnt the content. It is way too early now to be stressing over anything intra-curricular, so just follow along in lessons and it should work out. Most people I know only started getting their EPQs done later on in the year also.

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