Free Functional Skills English Level 1 in Blackburn. Classes run at Training 2000, full-time during the day. The course runs for 20 weeks and covers the reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills that employers and training providers look for. A level 1 functional skills english course is a recognised gcse english alternative, accepted by many apprenticeship programmes in place of a GCSE grade. You'll have an initial assessment to confirm this is the right level for you. Entry requirements are ideally GCSE grade 4, though applicants with lower grades can apply and will go through further assessment.
Who this course is for
16 to 18 year olds looking to secure an Apprenticeship within 6 months
Entry requirements
GCSE 4 ideally ,although applicants with lower grades can apply and will undergo through further assessments.
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, letters, and short reports.
You'll use correct spelling, punctuation, and grammar in your writing.
You'll listen carefully and respond appropriately in discussions and conversations.
You'll speak clearly and confidently in formal and informal situations.
You'll identify the main points and purpose of spoken and written information.
How you will learn
You'll learn in a classroom at Training 2000, with full-time daytime sessions across 20 weeks. Assessment is through two components: a reading and writing test, and a speaking, listening, and communication task. Both are set and marked externally by Pearson Edexcel. Your tutor will prepare you through classroom activities, practice tasks, and discussion work throughout the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Training 2000 will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Apprentice (any sector): most programmes accept Level 1 English as a starting point
Retail assistant: customer-facing role requiring clear written and spoken communication
Warehouse operative: reading instructions, completing paperwork, and team communication
Care assistant: recording notes and communicating with colleagues and service users
Receptionist: handling written messages, emails, and face-to-face conversations
Hospitality team member: following written instructions and communicating with customers
What you could study next
Functional Skills English Level 2: the next step up, and the qualification recognised as equivalent to a GCSE grade 4 in English. Many employers and further education courses ask for Level 2 as a minimum.
GCSE English Language: available at some centres if you want the GCSE qualification itself rather than the Functional Skills route.
Vocational qualifications at Level 2: once you have Level 1 English, many Level 2 courses in health and social care, business, construction, and other sectors become accessible.
