Free Entry Level 2 Functional Skills Maths in Derby. Classes run at Derby College, with daytime sessions that fit around other commitments. There are no formal entry requirements. You'll attend an assessment session first, up to 90 minutes, so the team can confirm the right level for you and plan your learning. The course focuses on practical maths: using numbers, measurements, and problem-solving in everyday situations. It runs over 35 weeks part-time. This entry level functional skills maths course leads to the Pearson Edexcel Functional Skills Qualification in Mathematics (Entry 2) with certificate.
Who this course is for
Functional Maths is an approach to teaching maths that helps people to gain the most out of life, learning and work. Joining a Functional Maths class will give you the opportunity to improve your maths skills and to use these skills for practical problem-solving. It will build your confidence in how to use maths in all aspects of your everyday life.Courses start in September and January, and we have evening and school hours classes delivered at our campuses and in community venues across Derby and Derbyshire. You will learn in a variety of ways in a friendly, relaxed environment. The course is also available at our Ilkeston and Joseph Wright sites on both a day-time and evening basis.
Entry requirements
There are no formal entry requirements to access this course and we have a variety of levels on offer to suit everyone.All applicants will be invited to an interview and assessment session. Please allow up to 90 minutes for your assessment: it will give us an indication of your current level and learning needs. Once complete, we will discuss the most appropriate level of course for you.
What you will learn
You'll work with whole numbers, including counting, ordering, and simple calculations.
You'll handle money and understand basic budgeting in everyday contexts.
You'll read and use simple measurements for length, weight, capacity, and time.
You'll interpret straightforward data from charts, tables, and diagrams.
You'll solve practical maths problems drawn from real everyday situations.
You'll build familiarity with fractions and simple percentages at Entry Level 2.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Derby College, with a mix of group work and individual tasks. Assessment is through a written test set and marked by Pearson Edexcel. Your tutor will track your progress throughout the course and prepare you for the final assessment. Courses start in September and January.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Derby College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: many employers ask for a maths qualification at this level
Retail assistant: handling cash, stock counts, and basic calculations
Warehouse operative: measuring, counting, and checking deliveries
Catering assistant: weighing ingredients and managing simple orders
Childcare worker: recording observations and tracking basic data
Cleaner or facilities operative: reading labels, measuring quantities safely
What you could study next
Once you've completed this qualification, you can move up through the Functional Skills Maths levels.
Functional Skills Qualification in Mathematics (Entry 3): the next step up, covering slightly more complex number work and problem-solving.
Functional Skills Qualification in Mathematics (Level 1): a further step toward the Level 2, which is the recognised GCSE maths alternative accepted by most employers and colleges.
Functional Skills Qualification in Mathematics (Level 2): the qualification employers mean when they ask for GCSE maths or equivalent.
