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Build confidence and competence in English communication skills with our flexible NCFE Functional Skills qualification. Whether you're starting from basics or building on existing knowledge, we'll assess your current level and support your journey to achieve recognised English qualifications that employers and universities value.
Functional Skills English qualifications are designed for adult learners who want to develop practical English skills that can be applied in real-world situations. Whether you're preparing for employment, further education, or simply want to build confidence in your communication abilities, our course provides the foundation you need to succeed.
Our flexible approach means you don't need advanced English knowledge to start. Through our comprehensive assessment process, we ensure you begin at the right level for your current abilities, whether that's Entry Level 1 focusing on basic communication skills, or Level 2 preparing you for complex workplace and academic communication.
This qualification is perfect for adult learners who want to improve their English skills for work, further study, or personal development. Many of our students are returners to education, people changing careers, parents returning to work, or professionals seeking to strengthen their communication skills. No previous qualifications are required - just the motivation to improve your English abilities.
Our Functional Skills English qualification offers progressive levels, each building essential communication skills through three core components: Speaking, Listening and Communicating; Reading; and Writing. Start at the level that matches your current abilities and progress at your own pace.
Perfect for beginners or those returning to learning after a long break. Learn alphabet recognition, basic sentence construction, simple conversations, and fundamental reading and writing skills. Develop confidence with English basics including saying letter names, following simple instructions, reading straightforward words, and writing simple sentences with capital letters and full stops.
Build on foundation skills to engage more confidently in everyday communication. Expand vocabulary, improve sentence structure, participate in discussions about familiar topics, read straightforward texts, and write simple documents with correct grammar and punctuation. Learn to ask questions, give opinions, and communicate information clearly.
Develop practical English skills for work and daily life. Engage confidently in group discussions, understand different text purposes, write reports and instructions, use a range of punctuation correctly, and communicate clearly in various contexts. Learn to extract information from texts, make contributions to discussions, and write for different audiences.
For learners ready for more complex communication challenges, Level 2 develops the advanced English skills needed for higher education and professional environments. Master complex texts, participate confidently in formal discussions, write detailed documents, analyse information critically, and adapt communication style effectively for different audiences and purposes. This level prepares you for GCSE equivalency and university-level study.
Functional Skills English qualifications are highly valued by employers and are essential for many job roles and further education opportunities. These skills open doors across all sectors and provide the communication foundation needed for career advancement.
Strong English skills are essential for virtually all employment sectors:
Functional Skills English provides the foundation for advanced study:
Assessment is through internal evaluation across the three key components, allowing you to demonstrate your English skills in practical, real-world contexts. Our assessment approach recognises that adult learners bring valuable life experience to their studies.
We begin with a thorough initial assessment to identify your current English level and any specific support needs. This ensures you start at the most appropriate level and receive targeted support throughout your studies. Our experienced tutors understand the challenges adult learners face and provide encouragement alongside expert instruction.
Regular progress monitoring ensures you're developing confidence and competence in all areas of English communication. Whether you need additional support with specific skills or want to accelerate your learning, our flexible approach adapts to your individual needs and learning style.