Free Entry Level 1 Functional Skills English in Croydon – CALAT Thornton Heath Centre

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 in Croydon. Classes run at CALAT Thornton Heath Centre, part-time during the day.

The course is free for adults aged 19 or over who have the right to reside in the UK, including asylum-seekers. You must not be on a student visa or overseas student status. You'll have an initial assessment before you start, so the centre can place you at the right level.

Over 17 weeks, you'll build the very first foundations of reading, writing, and communication in English. You'll finish with a 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 recognise and read simple words and short sentences.
  • You'll write your name, address, and basic personal information.
  • You'll understand simple spoken instructions and questions.
  • You'll communicate basic information in everyday situations.
  • You'll identify letters and sounds to help you read and write.
  • You'll follow short written texts on familiar topics.

How you will learn

You'll learn in a classroom at CALAT Thornton Heath Centre. Classes are part-time and run during the day. Your tutor will guide you through reading, writing, and speaking activities. Assessment is through tasks set by Pearson Edexcel, which test the skills you have practised during the course.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Further study support, a stepping stone toward roles that need stronger English skills.
  • Retail assistant, entry roles where basic reading and writing help day to day.
  • Warehouse operative, roles where following written instructions matters.
  • Care support worker, entry positions where communication with colleagues is needed.

What you could study next

  • Functional Skills English Entry Level 2, the natural next step to keep building your reading and writing.
  • Functional Skills English Entry Level 3, moves you closer to the pre-GCSE level.
  • Functional Skills English Level 1, a further step toward the GCSE English equivalent.
  • Functional Skills English Level 2, the recognised GCSE English alternative accepted by many employers and colleges.

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