Level 1 Functional Skills English in Birmingham – Longbridge Campus

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body

About this course

Free Functional Skills English Level 1 in Birmingham. Classes run at Longbridge Campus. This full-time daytime course runs over one year and is designed for learners working at or towards Entry Level 3 in English. You'll develop your reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills in a supported classroom setting. The course also covers maths alongside English, and includes work placement and volunteering opportunities to build practical experience. When employers ask for GCSE English or equivalent, a level 1 functional skills english qualification is a recognised step in that direction.

Who this course is for

This programme is mainly for learners 16-18 or those with an EHCP who have additional needs and who want to progress into the world of employment.�If you are thinking about going into employment, work placements or�volunteering in your local community, this course will support you to develop confidence, build communication skills and give you more independence.�Volunteering in the Community/Gardening/Animal Care�Supported InternshipEmployment for all (18 to 30 No EHCP required)

Entry requirements

You will be working at or towards Entry 3 functional skills in maths and English.�If

What you will learn

  • You'll develop your reading skills, working with a range of texts.
  • You'll practise writing clearly and accurately for different purposes.
  • You'll build your speaking and listening skills in everyday and work-related situations.
  • You'll learn how to write a CV and a covering letter.
  • You'll prepare for job interviews, including how to present yourself professionally.
  • You'll explore how to work and volunteer more independently in your community.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions at Longbridge Campus, three days a week, combined with time on work placements or in community volunteering roles. Assessment is through tasks and activities that test your reading, writing, speaking, and listening at Level 1. Staff support you throughout, and the course is structured to build your skills gradually over the year.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Longbridge Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Customer service assistant: uses written and spoken English daily.
  • Retail sales assistant: reading, writing, and communication are core.
  • Care assistant: clear communication is essential in this role.
  • Warehouse operative: workplace documents and instructions require solid English.
  • Receptionist or admin assistant: reading and writing tasks throughout the day.
  • Volunteer coordinator support: community roles that build on your placement experience.

What you could study next

  • Functional Skills English Level 2: the GCSE English equivalent, and the level many employers and colleges require. A natural next step after Level 1.
  • Level 2 Certificate or Diploma in your chosen vocational area: once your English is at Level 1 or above, many vocational courses become accessible.
  • Supported Internship or Employment for All programme: if you want to move directly into work with continued support.

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