Free Entry Level Functional Skills English Course in Eastleigh. Classes run at Skills 2 Achieve Southampton, with part-time daytime sessions that fit around other commitments. You'll have an initial assessment to confirm that the Functional Skills English Entry Level 3 qualification is the right starting point for you. The course covers reading, writing, and spoken English in everyday situations. It typically takes 6 months part-time. This entry level functional skills english qualification is a recognised step toward Level 1 and Level 2, the GCSE English alternative accepted by many employers and colleges. Functional Skills qualification in English at Entry 3.
Who this course is for
This course is for young people aged 16-19 (or 24 with an EHCP) who would like to improve their reading, writing and spoken English, perhaps to get a job or begin a course or training. It will help you to build your confidence to communicate well in everyday situations. Functional Skills English courses are included in all school leaver study programmes for anyone who hasn’t yet achieved grade 5 or above at GCSE. It's taken as part of our study programme which includes employability skills and the opportunity to participate in work experience and community projects.
If College or school isn’t for you then our study programme may be the right environment for you to gain these valuable skills to enable you to move forward.
Entry requirements
There are no formal entry requirements. You will have an initial assessment to establish which Functional Skills level of entry is right for you.
You'll have a discussion with one of our Skills2Achieve tutors about your hobbies and interests and your career and study goals.
What you will learn
You'll read and understand everyday texts, such as letters, notices, and short articles.
You'll write clearly for practical purposes, including forms, messages, and short notes.
You'll develop your spoken English for conversations in everyday and work-related situations.
You'll listen and respond to information given verbally.
You'll build vocabulary and grammar for clear, accurate written communication.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions at Skills 2 Achieve Southampton, with a mix of group activities, discussion, and written tasks. Assessment is by externally set tests covering reading and writing, plus a separate spoken English assessment. Your tutor will discuss your interests and goals at the start to help shape your learning.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Skills 2 Achieve Southampton will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Customer service assistant: clear written and spoken English is essential
Receptionist: reading, writing, and communication skills used daily
Retail assistant: writing, reading notices, and talking with customers
Care assistant: reading care notes and communicating with clients
Warehouse operative: reading instructions and completing paperwork
School support worker: written and spoken English needed for the role
What you could study next
Functional Skills English Level 1: the next step up, covering more complex reading and writing tasks.
Functional Skills English Level 2: the GCSE English alternative recognised by employers and further education providers. Many jobs and courses ask for this level.
GCSE English: available at some centres for those who want a traditional GCSE route.
ESOL qualifications: if English is not your first language, ESOL courses run alongside Functional Skills at many centres.
