Free Entry Level 1 Functional Skills English in Croydon

CostFREE
Duration17 weeks
LevelEntry Level
DeliveryClassroom based
Start22 Feb 2027
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free Entry Level 1 Functional Skills English course in Croydon. Classes run at CALAT Central Croydon Centre, part-time during the day.

The course runs over 17 weeks. You'll build core English skills, covering reading, writing, speaking, and listening at the most accessible level. It suits anyone balancing study with other commitments, such as caring responsibilities or part-time work. The course is free for adults aged 19 or over who have the right to residence in the UK, including asylum-seekers. You'll start with an initial assessment to make sure this is the right level for you.

You'll finish with a Pearson Edexcel Functional Skills Qualification in English at Entry Level 1.

Who this course is for

We offer English and Maths courses from beginner up to GCSE level:

Functional Skills from beginners to pre-GCSE. GCSE qualifications. Flexible online English and Maths courses, from Entry 3 to Level 2. Short courses in writing to improve employment prospects.

Learn for free. All of our English and Maths courses are free to learners with the right to residence in the UK, including asylum-seekers. Please note that you must be 19+ and not on a student visa / overseas student.

What are Functional Skills? Functional Skills are recognised GCSE alternative qualifications, with a Functional Skills Level 2 course being equivalent to a GCSE grade 4 (C). However, there are some instances where functional skills Level 2 is not considered equivalent, such as for becoming a teacher, so do check before enrolling.

Why do I need Functional Skills? Functional Skills are essential as they equip you with the practical literacy, numeracy, and digital skills required for everyday tasks, employment, and further education. These skills enable better communication, problem-solving, and effective use of technology, making you more competent and confident in your personal and professional lives.

Entry requirements

Initial Assessment.

What you will learn

  • You'll read and understand short, simple texts on familiar topics.
  • You'll write simple words, phrases, and sentences clearly.
  • You'll listen and respond to straightforward spoken information.
  • You'll speak clearly enough to be understood in everyday situations.
  • You'll follow basic instructions given in written or spoken form.
  • You'll recognise and use common punctuation and spelling in your writing.

How you will learn

You'll learn in a classroom at CALAT Central Croydon Centre, with a tutor guiding each session. Classes are part-time and run during the day. You'll be assessed through tasks that reflect everyday English use, such as reading short texts and completing writing activities. There is no formal written exam at Entry Level 1.

What you will need to bring

Please bring proof of your right to residence in the UK. Accepted documents include a UK birth certificate, a UK or EU passport, or an Indefinite Leave to Remain Resident Permit. CALAT Central Croydon Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Customer service assistant, handles queries and written communication at work.
  • Warehouse operative, reads instructions and completes basic paperwork.
  • Care assistant, follows written care plans and records notes.
  • Retail assistant, reads labels, signs, and simple written tasks.
  • Cleaner or caretaker, follows written health and safety instructions.

What you could study next

  • Functional Skills English Entry Level 2, the natural next step after Entry Level 1.
  • Functional Skills English Entry Level 3, moves you closer to a GCSE English alternative.
  • Functional Skills English Level 1, builds toward the recognised GCSE English equivalent.
  • Functional Skills English Level 2, the full GCSE English alternative accepted by most employers and colleges.

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