Introduction
If you want to improve your qualifications without committing to a full GCSE course, functional skills maths and English could be the perfect choice. These qualifications are recognised across the UK and accepted by employers, universities, and apprenticeship providers. Achieving them gives you a Level 2 qualification, equivalent to a GCSE grade C or level 4. At Bradford Tutor Company, we have put together this guide to explain what these qualifications involve and how they can help you progress.
Why Maths and English Functional Skills are so Popular
One of the main reasons learners choose functional skills maths and English is the flexibility. You can study and sit your exam entirely online from home, with remote invigilation available during evenings, weekends, and throughout the year. The course content focuses on practical, everyday skills, so there is less to cover compared to a full GCSE syllabus. Results are also returned quickly, often within just a few working days.
What You Get with a Functional Skills Course
When you enrol with providers such as Pass Functional Skills, you can expect:
- Access to an online learning platform with video tutorials, interactive practice questions, mock exams, and instant feedback.
- A free initial assessment to highlight your strengths and areas to work on.
- A complete range of revision resources, including worksheets, past papers, and topic guides for both maths and English.
These materials are designed to support you from start to finish, helping you develop the skills and confidence to pass your exam.
How Functional Skills Maths and English Can Help You
A Level 2 qualification in maths and English is often essential for careers such as nursing, teaching, or the police. Many learners also complete English and maths functional skills to help them progress in their current role or meet entry requirements for further study. With pass rates often above the national average, this route is a reliable choice for many.
Common Questions
Is it easier than GCSE?
It is not necessarily easier, but it is more focused. The questions are based on real-life situations, and there is less content to learn compared to GCSE.
What is the pass mark?
The pass mark varies depending on the exam board. For maths, it is often around 55%. In English, the reading and writing exams are marked separately, and the speaking and listening section is assessed on your performance during the activity.
If you are looking for a qualification that is practical, flexible, and widely recognised, functional skills maths and English could be exactly what you need.