Free Level 1 Functional Skills English in Bradford – Skills for Work

CostFREE
Duration6 months
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
StartFlexible
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body

About this course

Free Functional Skills English Level 1 in Bradford. Classes run at Skills for Work, with daytime sessions that fit around other commitments. You'll start with an initial assessment and basic skills diagnostic to confirm the right level for you. Over around 6 months, you'll explore different types of writing, broaden your reading, and develop your communication skills. This level 1 functional skills english course is a recognised gcse english alternative, accepted by many employers and colleges in place of GCSE English.

Who this course is for

English courses achieving either units or full qualifications from Entry Level progressing to Level 2 qualifications. Foundation: (Entry 1 and 2) Improve your skills and confidence Intermediate: (Entry 3 – Level 1) • English - Explore different types of writing, improve and widen your reading and improve general communication skills

Entry requirements

You will be required to undertake an initial assessment and basic skills diagnostic assessment to determine the level you are working prior to starting the course/qualification.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore different types of writing, from everyday to formal texts.
  • You'll improve your reading skills across a range of materials.
  • You'll develop your general communication skills, spoken and written.
  • You'll practise understanding and responding to written information.
  • You'll build your ability to write clearly and accurately for different purposes.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Skills for Work. Teaching covers reading, writing, and communication through practical tasks and guided activities. Assessment for the full qualification is through externally set and marked tests, covering reading and writing. Speaking and listening is assessed separately. Your initial diagnostic assessment helps plan your learning from the start.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Skills for Work will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Care assistant: many employers ask for Level 1 English or above.
  • Retail assistant: written communication skills support customer-facing roles.
  • Warehouse operative: reading instructions and completing paperwork accurately.
  • Receptionist or admin assistant: writing clearly is central to the role.
  • Teaching assistant: schools expect solid English skills at this level or above.
  • Catering and hospitality worker: reading menus, orders, and safety information.

What you could study next

  • Functional Skills English Level 2: the next step up, and the recognised GCSE English equivalent accepted by most employers and colleges. Many people aim for Level 2 after completing Level 1.
  • GCSE English Language: available at some colleges if you want a traditional GCSE route.
  • Vocational qualifications at Level 2: many require Level 1 English as a minimum, so this qualification opens doors to further training in health and social care, business, and other sectors.

Related courses at Skills for Work

More courses near you