Free Functional Skills English Level 1 in Hartlepool. Classes run at Hartlepool Jobs & Skills, daytime, with flexible study to fit around your life. The course builds your reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills for work, study, and everyday situations. You'll have an initial assessment before you start, so the course is pitched at the right level for you. This level 1 functional skills english course typically takes 4 months. When employers ask for GCSE English or equivalent, a Level 1 Functional Skills English Qualification is a recognised step toward that standard.
Who this course is for
This course is designed to prepare you for work, study and everyday life. You improve your reading, writing, speaking and listening skills.
Entry requirements
There are no formal entry requirements. You will have an initial assessment before starting your course to tell us what the correct level for you will be.
What you will learn
You'll read and understand different types of texts, including workplace documents and everyday materials.
You'll write clearly for different purposes, such as emails, forms, and short reports.
You'll improve your spelling, punctuation, and grammar.
You'll listen carefully and respond in spoken conversations and discussions.
You'll speak clearly and confidently in everyday and work-related situations.
You'll identify the main points and details in what you read and hear.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions at Hartlepool Jobs & Skills, with flexible daytime attendance. The course covers reading, writing, speaking, and listening through practical tasks and activities. Assessment is through an externally set and marked written exam, plus a separate speaking and listening assessment. Both are set by NCFE.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Hartlepool Jobs & Skills will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: many employers ask for English at this level
Retail sales assistant: reading and writing used daily
Warehouse operative: workplace documents and communication
Receptionist or admin assistant: emails, forms, and phone calls
Catering or hospitality worker: customer-facing communication
Teaching assistant: supporting reading and writing in classrooms
What you could study next
Functional Skills English Level 2: the GCSE English alternative recognised by most employers and colleges. The natural next step after Level 1.
GCSE English Language: available at some centres if you prefer the traditional qualification route.
Level 2 vocational qualifications: many require Level 1 or Level 2 English alongside them, so completing this opens up a wider range of funded courses.
