Free Functional Skills English Level 1 in Bournemouth. Classes run at Bournemouth & Poole College Bournemouth Campus, daytime, over around 6 months. You'll work on reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary, and speaking and listening skills. Before you start, you'll complete a two-part assessment: an online BKSB test and a written task. This places you at the right level, whether that's Entry Level 3, Level 1, or Level 2. The goal is to progress toward Level 2, the recognised GCSE English equivalent that employers and universities accept.
Who this course is for
This course is designed to improve your confidence and ability in using English Language. The main focus is on your reading and writing skills. You will be assigned a level (Entry 3, Level 1 or Level 2) based on your current ability in English. No matter your starting point, you will be ultimately working towards achieving a Level 2 Functional Skills qualification, which is seen as the equivalent of a Grade 4 pass at GCSE and is valued by most HE institutions and employers.
Entry requirements
You will need a good basic knowledge of English, as this course will focus on technical skills such as grammar, spelling and vocabulary. If English is not your first language, you may wish to consider an ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) course instead.
All prospective students need to take an assessment before commencing this course. This assessment is in two parts: an online BKSB assessment and also an in-person written task. The purpose of the pre-assessment is to place student
What you will learn
You'll improve your reading skills across a range of text types.
You'll develop your writing accuracy, including grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
You'll build your vocabulary and learn to express ideas more clearly in writing.
You'll practise speaking and listening skills through in-class discussion and presentation activities.
You'll learn to understand and respond to written information in everyday contexts.
How you will learn
You'll study in a classroom at Bournemouth & Poole College Bournemouth Campus. Assessment includes a reading and writing exam and a speaking and listening activity completed in class. If you need more than one attempt at the exams, there will be additional opportunities during the course. Before the course begins, you'll complete an online BKSB assessment and an in-person written task so the college can place you at the right level.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Bournemouth & Poole College Bournemouth Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Customer service assistant: clear written communication is often required
Receptionist: reading, writing, and speaking skills used daily
Care assistant: written records and communication are part of the role
Retail assistant: reading instructions and writing reports may be needed
Administrator: email, document, and correspondence skills apply directly
Teaching assistant: supporting literacy in the classroom
What you could study next
Functional Skills Qualification in English Level 2: the recognised GCSE English equivalent, accepted by employers and universities when they ask for GCSE grade 4 or above.
GCSE English Language: a formal exam-based qualification if you want the GCSE itself.
Access to Higher Education Diploma: many courses require Level 2 English as an entry condition, making this a natural next step.
