Free Functional Skills English Level 1 Course in Derby. Classes run at Derby Multicultural Centre, part-time during the day, from September 2026 to May 2027. Sessions run from 12:30 to 15:00, making them manageable alongside other commitments. The course covers reading, writing, and speaking and listening in everyday English contexts. It runs for 70 hours in total. Before you start, you'll have an initial assessment to check your current level and make sure Level 1 is the right fit. If English is your second language, the centre may suggest an ESOL course instead.
Who this course is for
FEES almost all of our maths and English classes are fully funded meaning you will not need to pay fees. When you click apply now, use the drop down box to select the 'Full remission' option and this will zero the fees. Our staff will provide more information once you've booked your assessment.
The course is suitable for learners who wish to be recognised for their achievement of a wide range of practical English skills for use in everyday life or who would like to improve their confidence and skills with all areas of the English language.
English Functional Skills are benchmark qualifications required by many employers and recognised nationally.
Level 1 and 2 qualifications will improve your everyday English skills to a more advanced level and allow learners to progress onto higher levels of English Functional Skills or GCSE.
Entry requirements
To join a functional skills class at Level 1 or Level 2 you will usually have completed functional skills, Entry Level 3 or Level 1 respectively, or be working at that standard in your reading, writing and speaking and listening.
An initial assessment will be completed prior to enrolling onto this course to check prior knowledge, identify any skills gaps and ensure you join the correct level course for you.
What you will learn
You'll read and understand a range of texts used in everyday life and work.
You'll write clearly for different purposes, including letters, forms, and messages.
You'll develop your speaking and listening skills in practical situations.
You'll identify the main points and details in written and spoken information.
You'll use grammar, punctuation, and spelling accurately in your writing.
You'll build the English skills many employers ask for at this level.
How you will learn
You'll learn in a classroom at Derby Multicultural Centre, in a group of between 8 and 18 learners. Classes are tutor-led and cover reading, writing, and speaking and listening. Assessment is through a formal City and Guilds examination. Your initial assessment before enrolment helps identify any skills gaps and confirms you are on the right level.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Derby Adult Learning Service will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Customer service assistant: clear written and spoken English is expected.
Care assistant: reading and writing accurately is part of daily work.
Retail assistant: communicating with customers and completing paperwork.
Warehouse operative: reading instructions and completing records.
Receptionist: writing messages, emails, and handling calls.
School support worker: many roles ask for Level 1 or Level 2 English.
What you could study next
Functional Skills English Level 2: the recognised GCSE English equivalent. Many employers and colleges ask for Level 2 as a minimum, and it opens doors to further training.
GCSE English: some learners move on to a GCSE qualification after completing Level 2 Functional Skills.
ESOL courses: if English is your second language, an ESOL qualification may be a better next step depending on your current level.
