Free Entry Level 3 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 3 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 study reading, writing, speaking, and listening at Entry Level 3. Topics build your ability to understand and use everyday English in work and daily life. The course is free for learners aged 19 or over who have the right to reside in the UK, including asylum-seekers. You'll have an initial assessment to confirm the right starting level for you.

You'll finish with a Pearson Edexcel Functional Skills Qualification in English at Entry Level 3.

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 texts on familiar topics.
  • You'll write clearly for everyday purposes, such as messages, forms, and notes.
  • You'll identify the main points in spoken information.
  • You'll speak clearly and take part in simple discussions.
  • You'll use correct spelling, punctuation, and grammar in your writing.
  • You'll follow written instructions and extract key information.

How you will learn

You'll learn in a classroom at CALAT Central Croydon Centre. Teaching covers reading, writing, speaking, and listening through guided activities and practice tasks. Assessment is through a formal written exam and a speaking and listening assessment set by Pearson Edexcel. Your tutor will support you throughout the course to prepare for both.

What you will need to bring

Please 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 Central Croydon Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Customer service assistant, uses written and spoken English daily.
  • Warehouse operative, reads instructions and completes paperwork.
  • Care assistant, communicates clearly with clients and colleagues.
  • Retail assistant, handles written tasks and customer queries.
  • Cleaner or catering assistant, follows written instructions and rotas.
  • School support worker, needs clear written and spoken English.

What you could study next

  • Functional Skills English Level 1, the next step up from Entry Level 3 and a recognised GCSE English alternative.
  • Functional Skills English Level 2, equivalent to a GCSE in English and accepted by many employers and colleges.
  • GCSE English, available at CALAT for learners ready to take the full qualification.

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