English Functional Skills
Course introduction
You will learn and practise the skills needed to communicate confidently, effectively and independently.
This course supports the practical development of English skills enabling you to gain the most out of your work, education and day to day life.
During the course you will focus on reading, writing, speaking and listening.
Level 2 Functional Skills qualifications can be a requirement for work or further education and can be used in preparation for GCSE courses.
Information & support
In class, you will be supported by the course tutor and if required, a learning support assistant (LSA).
Our e-learning site provides additional information and learning resources and is accessible both inside and outside the college.
The Skills Development Team will also be available to provide specialist support to students with specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia and dyspraxia.
Minimum entry requirements
These qualifications are for Sixth Form or Apprenticeship students:
- Who have not achieved a Grade 3 (D) or higher in English GCSE
- Who require Functional Skills for their apprenticeship framework
Course structure
You will be initially assessed to identify your individual strengths and needs, these assessments are then used to plan programmes of learning and levels.
Classes are usually made up of students on the same or similar main courses.
The emphasis of teaching is on improving practical communication skills so you can gain the most from life, learning and work.
The context for learning is a range of real life scenarios such as reading instructions, articles, letters, e-mails and writing job applications.
In addition, the course will cover practical strategies to improve spelling, punctuation and grammar.
Teaching methods include tutor-led sessions and discussions, plus individual, paired and group tasks.
What can I do with this qualification?
Level 1 will allow progression to Level 2 Functional Skills.
Level 2 will allow progression to GSCE English.
English Functional Skills qualifications will improve your skills in day to day life and can be a requirement for further/higher education or employment.