Functional Skills English
Entry Level 3 to Level 2
Build confidence. Gain a recognised qualification. Take your next step.
Functional Skills English is a practical qualification designed for adults who want to improve their skills for work, further learning, or everyday life.
Whether you’re looking to boost your job prospects, meet course or apprenticeship requirements, or feel more confident with reading and writing, these courses can help you move forward.
Why Study Functional Skills?
Functional Skills qualifications are nationally recognised and valued by employers and education providers across the UK.
They can help you to:
- Improve your English for everyday life
- Progress into work, training, or further education
- Meet entry requirements for courses or apprenticeships
- Build confidence in practical, real‑life situations
You can start at Entry Level 3 and progress up to Level 2, with support throughout.
English Functional Skills
Develop your ability to:
- Read and understand emails, letters, and forms
- Write clearly for work and daily life
- Speak and listen with confidence in meetings and discussions
The focus is on clear communication that works in real situations.
Learning Designed for Adults
Our courses are:
- Taught in a supportive, relaxed environment
- Led by experienced tutors who understand adult learners
- Focused on real‑life skills, not just exams
We help you learn at a pace that suits you and support you every step of the way.
Not Studied for a While?
Many learners haven’t been in education for years or feel nervous about returning. That’s completely normal.
We start you at the right level for you and help you build confidence gradually in a friendly, supportive setting.
Ready to Get Started?
Apply now for one of our ‘Welcome To’ courses. You’ll complete an initial assessment and, if successful, be offered a place on a Functional Skills English course at a location across the county.
Your future starts with one step—and we’re here to help you take it.
Below Entry Level 3?
If you’re working below Entry Level 3, don’t worry. You can begin on an Everyday English course, designed to build confidence and essential skills before progressing to Functional Skills.
Why Choose Functional Skills?
Functional Skills qualifications are nationally recognised and valued by employers, colleges, and training providers across the UK.
They help you to:
✅ Improve reading, writing, and communication for everyday life
✅ Meet course or apprenticeship entry requirements
✅ Increase your chances of promotion or employment
✅ Gain confidence in work, study, and daily tasks
Who are these courses for?
These courses are for adults aged 19+ who want to:
Improve their English
Gain a qualification for work, training, or further study
Build confidence with reading, writing, or communication
You don’t need any previous qualifications to enrol.
What levels are available?
We offer:
Entry Level 3 (E3) – for building confidence with basic skills
Level 1 (L1) – for developing independence and problem‑solving
Level 2 (L2) – equivalent to GCSE grade 4 (C)
We’ll help you start at the right level for you.
How do I know which level I should take?
Don’t worry, you won’t have to guess.
You’ll complete a friendly initial assessment so we can recommend the best level based on your current skills and goals.
I haven’t studied for years. Is that a problem?
Not at all. Many of our learners haven’t been in education for a long time.
Our tutors are experienced in supporting adults returning to learning, and lessons are paced to help you build confidence step by step.
Are there exams?
Yes, but they are designed to assess real‑life skills, not memorisation.
You’ll be fully prepared, and your tutor will make sure you’re ready before you take any assessment.
What is the difference between Functional Skills and GCSEs?
Functional Skills focus on practical, everyday skills that apply directly to work and daily life.
They are often quicker, more flexible, and better suited for adult learners than GCSEs.
Can Functional Skills help me get a job or promotion?
Yes. Many employers require or value English and Maths qualifications, especially at Level 2.
Functional Skills can also help you progress onto:
Apprenticeships
Access to Higher Education courses
Further training or qualifications
What support will I get?
You’ll receive:
Supportive teaching from experienced tutors
Clear learning goals
Help with confidence, study skills, and exam preparation
A friendly, respectful learning environment
You’re never expected to struggle alone.
Studying English could lead to…
New qualifications
At Skills & Learning, we offer a range of qualifications to suit all abilities, including portfolio-based units, stepping-stone assessments, Functional Skills and GCSE.
More confidence for communication
Developing your reading, writing, and speaking and listening skills can help give you confidence when communicating at work, in interviews or in everyday situations.
New job prospects
Gaining qualifications and skills can help you improve your job prospects and open up new opportunities and pathways.
How do I enrol?
If you would like to enrol in one of our Functional Skills English courses, you will first need to join a Welcome to English course. You can do this via the following options:
- Apply online using the links below
- Call our Enquiries Team on 01202 123444
- Visit one of our centres to speak to a member of staff
“The course was great. Very well structured and organised. We had a lot of support, feedback and motivation. There were lots of materials and resources to learn. One of the best courses I’ve ever taken and I’ve taken many.”
“Since completing my Course with you it gave me a huge confidence boost which made me want to continue with further study but I wasn’t sure what until I stumbled across an access module course through the open university. Well, I still can’t believe it but I completed my first assignment a few weeks ago and received my grade yesterday. I still can’t believe it and spent most of yesterday in happy tears but I received 91%!”
“I’m more confident reading to my daughter. I always dreaded bedtimes and story books. Now I’m, ‘Which book tonight?”
“Because of going to English, I have started voluntary work in a shop.”
“This course has been fantastic for me. It has made me really want to better myself and continue being in education as I really enjoy learning.”
“My confidence has improved dramatically since starting courses with Skills & Learning and even though I’ve had some health problems that have made it difficult, I have been supported all along the way.”
“I have felt inspired to learn and comfortable to ask for clarification when needed.”
“I have achieved my Level 1 and I’m working towards my Level 2 in 2019/20. My confidence has improved and I have a new and better job.”
“I never realised how great English was until I stepped into your classroom. Thank you.”
