Entry Level 3 Functional Skills English at Adult Learning Cottingham

CostFREE
Duration45 weeks
LevelEntry Level
DeliveryClassroom based
Start15 Sep 2026
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body

About this course

Free Entry Level 3 Functional Skills English in Cottingham. Classes run at Adult Learning Cottingham, part-time during the day, so you can fit study around other commitments. The course runs for 45 weeks and covers the reading, writing, and communication skills used in everyday life and work. A functional skills english qualification at this level is the recognised step before Level 2, which is the GCSE english equivalent accepted by employers and colleges. You'll sit an assessment at the end. Entry Level 3 Functional Skills Qualification in English with certificate.

Who this course is for

You will learn new skills to help you in everyday life and could go on to gain a nationally recognised qualification to help your CV stand out when applying for jobs. Whatever you need, we have a full range of flexible English courses that will help you to achieve your goal.

Entry requirements

Suitable for those who do not already have a English qualification at Level 2 (GCSE grade C / Level 4) or above.

What you will learn

  • You'll read and understand different types of texts, including forms, letters, and notices.
  • You'll write clearly for everyday purposes such as messages, notes, and short documents.
  • You'll spell common words correctly and use basic punctuation.
  • You'll listen and respond to spoken information in familiar situations.
  • You'll speak clearly to give and ask for information.
  • You'll identify the main points in a text and explain what they mean.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Adult Learning Cottingham. Teaching covers reading, writing, speaking, and listening through practical tasks and exercises. Assessment is by a formal written exam and a speaking and listening assessment, both set and marked externally by City and Guilds.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Adult Learning Cottingham will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Care assistant: many employers ask for a Level 2 English qualification
  • Retail assistant: written communication needed for stock, orders, and customer contact
  • Warehouse operative: reading instructions and completing paperwork accurately
  • Receptionist or admin assistant: writing emails, messages, and forms
  • Classroom or teaching assistant: supporting children's literacy requires strong English skills
  • Customer service advisor: clear written and spoken communication throughout

What you could study next

  • Functional Skills English Level 1: the next step up, building on Entry Level 3 skills.
  • Functional Skills English Level 2: the GCSE english alternative accepted by most employers and colleges. Completing Level 2 opens doors to further training, apprenticeships, and jobs that ask for a GCSE english equivalent.
  • GCSE English: available at some adult learning centres if you prefer the traditional route.