Possible Clues:

• Branch of mathematics using letters and symbols
• Maths subject
• A garble (anag) — branch of mathematics
• Course with x's
• A student, say, set up female support in maths subject
• Some elements briefly support a method of calculation
• Might a lag get a bare X in this?
• 'Branch of mathematics, uses letters and symbols (7)'
• A learner, for instance, being backward, needs support in school subject
• Student in time getting support for part of maths course