Free Entry Level 3 Functional Skills Maths in Basildon. Classes run at Basildon GAPS Trade Centre. You'll need to be enrolled on a vocational qualification at one of the GAPS centres to join. The course covers numbers, measures, shape and space, and handling data. It takes around 55 hours and includes a calculator and non-calculator exam. An entry level functional skills maths course like this is a recognised GCSE maths alternative, accepted by many employers and colleges when they ask for a maths qualification.
Who this course is for
Young people aged 16-18 (and 16-24 with an EHCP) who would like to gain a qualification in Functional Skills Maths.
What you will learn
You'll work with numbers and the number system, including calculations and place value.
You'll use common measures, shape, and space in practical contexts.
You'll handle and interpret data and information.
You'll practise both calculator and non-calculator maths.
You'll apply maths to everyday situations, including budgeting and cost-of-living calculations.
How you will learn
You'll study in a classroom at Basildon GAPS Trade Centre. Assessment is by two exams: one where you can use a calculator and one where you cannot. Both are set and marked externally. Your learning is structured around the three core areas of the qualification: number, measures and shape, and data handling.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Basildon GAPS Trade Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Retail assistant: many employers ask for a maths qualification at this level.
Warehouse operative: stock counting and basic calculations required.
Care assistant: numeracy used daily for medication and record-keeping.
Catering assistant: measures and handling money are core to the role.
Construction labourer: measurements and quantities needed on site.
What you could study next
Functional Skills Qualification in Mathematics (Level 1): the next step up from Entry Level 3, covering more complex number work and problem-solving.
Functional Skills Qualification in Mathematics (Level 2): the recognised GCSE maths equivalent. Many employers and further education courses ask for this level.
GCSE Mathematics: available at some centres if you want the traditional qualification route.
