Free Entry Level Functional Skills English Course in Portsmouth. Classes run at Skills 2 Achieve Portsmouth, part-time during the day, so you can fit study around other commitments. You'll work on reading, writing, and spoken English at Entry Level 3. The course typically takes 6 months. No formal entry requirements; you'll have an initial assessment to confirm the right level for you. A functional skills english qualification at this level is a recognised gcse english alternative when employers ask for evidence of English ability.
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, including signs, forms, and short documents.
You'll write clearly for everyday purposes, such as messages, notes, and simple forms.
You'll speak and listen confidently in familiar everyday situations.
You'll follow and give straightforward instructions and information.
You'll identify the main points from spoken and written material.
You'll use correct spelling, punctuation, and grammar in your writing.
How you will learn
Classes are classroom based and run part-time during the day. You'll learn through a mix of tutor-led sessions, group activities, and individual tasks covering reading, writing, and spoken English. Assessment is through set tasks and a formal test. 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 Portsmouth will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: many care employers ask for evidence of English skills
Retail sales assistant: written and spoken English used daily
Warehouse operative: reading instructions and completing paperwork
Receptionist or admin assistant: writing messages, emails, and forms
Classroom teaching assistant: supporting pupils requires clear communication
Customer service advisor: speaking and listening skills used throughout
What you could study next
Functional Skills qualification in English at Level 1: the next step up, building on Entry Level 3 skills.
Functional Skills qualification in English at Level 2: the qualification recognised as a GCSE English equivalent by employers and colleges.
GCSE English: available at many further education colleges for those who want the traditional qualification route.
ESOL qualifications: if English is not your first language, ESOL courses develop language skills alongside Functional Skills.
