PART-TIME COURSES
Functional Skills English is a practical qualification designed to develop the reading, writing, speaking, listening and communication skills needed for everyday life, work and further study. Whether you are looking to improve your confidence, progress in your career, support your children’s learning, or meet entry requirements for further qualifications, this course provides the skills employers and education providers value. Through engaging, real-life activities, you will learn how to communicate effectively, understand written information, and produce clear written responses. The course is available at different levels to suit your starting point and goals.
Classes run across several campuses and at varied times to suit your needs:
North Shropshire College (Oswestry) – Wednesday morning – 9.30am-11.30am
North Shropshire College (Oswestry) – Wednesday afternoon – 12.45pm-2.45pm
Gateway Adult Education Centre (Shrewsbury) – Thursday afternoon – 1.00pm-3.00pm
Ludlow Sixth Form College – Friday morning – 12.00pm-2.00pm
The course is accredited by City and Guilds and you will receive a qualification in Functional Skills English from Entry
level 1 to Level 2, depending on your level of study
Successful completion of Functional Skills English can open up a range of progression opportunities.
Learners may progress to the next Functional Skills level, GCSE English, vocational qualifications, apprenticeships, or other further education programmes. The qualification can help meet entry requirements for many courses and employment opportunities, including careers in health and social care, education, business administration, construction, and customer service. Improved English skills can also support career development, increased confidence in the workplace, and greater independence in everyday life. Level 2 Functional Skills English is widely recognised by employers and training providers as an equivalent qualification to GCSE English Grade 4 (C).
– Improve your English skills in a friendly and relaxed environment
– Develop your ability to understand and use English effectively in your everyday life
– Develop your ability to understand and use English effectively in your workplace
– Open doors to further learning and employment opportunities
The City & Guilds Functional Skills English programme is available from Entry Level 1 through to Level 2, enabling
learners to build skills progressively.
At Entry Levels, learners develop basic reading, writing, speaking and listening skills for everyday situations.
At Level 1, learners increase their confidence in understanding and producing a range of texts, communicating
effectively and writing for different purposes.
At Level 2, learners refine their skills by analysing information, comparing viewpoints, producing well-structured
written responses and communicating clearly in a variety of contexts.
Throughout the programme, learning is practical, relevant and focused on real-life, work and study situations.
Entry levels are assessed via classroom based, externally set exams that are marked by the course tutor. Level 1 and 2
exams are externally set and marked by independent examiners. Exams can be taken online or written.
There are no formal entry requirements for the course.
Tutors will provide initial advice and guidance, as well as a short initial assessment to determine the level of study that is right for you. If you have any existing Functional Skills or GCSE qualifications in English, please bring these with you to you first meeting with the course tutor.
