Functional Skills

Functional Skills - Maths and English

Functionals Skills qualifications in Maths and English equip learners with practical, work-relevant abilities that make a real difference in everyday job roles.  These essential qualifications aren’t just valuable in the present - they pave the way for a member of staff’s future progression and long into their careers. 

What You’ll Learn:

Functional Skills supports improved communication, stronger numeracy, and enhanced problem-solving skills.  For example, whether it’s writing a report or sending an email, learners will develop the ability to express themselves professionally and confidently.  Or from managing budgets and interpreting data, Functional Skills in Maths gives a learner the tools to perform tasks accurately and efficiently.

Assessment/Exam:

At the beginning of each Maths or English programme, you will complete a diagnostic assessment which will identify specific strengths and knowledge gaps and help to determine which level you will work towards.  On completion of your programme, you will be assessed via an exam.

Duration:

Functional Skills programmes typically last 24 weeks, requiring 3 hours of weekly attendance.  In addition, tutors will set weekly homework, designed to reinforce classroom learning.

Eligibility:

Our programmes are available to all staff employed on a substantive or bank contract.

Cost:

Functional Skills in Maths and English are fully funded by the UK government for adults (19+) living in England, who have not previously attained a GCSE grade 4/C or equivalent.  Learners must live in England and meet specific residency requirements.

Functional Skills within an Apprenticeship:

If you are aged 19+ and do not hold a Level 2 English and Maths qualification, Functional Skills is optional and will be based on a joint decision between your employer who will confirm whether you need these. If it is agreed that you will undertake Functional Skills, your manager must release you to attend these classes, which is in addition to the required OTJ time. You must attempt the Functional Skills assessments, but you do not need to pass them to complete your apprenticeship. Functional Skills may still be required if your job role or sector standards mandate a minimum level of English and/or maths qualification. If you need to achieve more than one qualification, you will need to begin your Functional Skills classes before starting your apprenticeship. If you are aged 16–18 and do not hold a Level 2 English and Maths qualification, you are required to complete these as part of your apprenticeship.

If you have Maths and English qualifications from overseas, you will need to provide certificate evidence of your qualifications so we can request a conversion which will confirm whether one or both are equivalent and can exempt you from Level 2 Functional Skills classes.