Post A Job
Advertise Courses
Search Jobs
Search Courses

Free Level 1 Functional Skills English in Brighton

CostFREE
Duration12 months
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Functional Skills English Level 1 in Brighton. Classes run at Varndean College. You'll study full-time during the day, covering reading, writing, speaking, and listening. The course runs over 12 months. A level 1 functional skills english qualification sits one step below the GCSE English equivalent, and completing it can open doors to further study or employment where a recognised english qualification is required. You'll have an initial assessment to confirm this is the right level for you; the college will use it to plan your learning.

Who this course is for

This new syllabus is a fast-track, one-year GCSE English Language course involving wider reading and building on written and spoken skills.

If you arrive with a Grade 4 in GCSE English Literature, you do not have to re-sit English Language GCSE, but it may be useful especially if you are considering going to university or for future employment.

Entry requirements

Standard Foundation Level entry requirements

What you will learn

  • You'll read and understand different types of texts, including everyday documents and longer passages.
  • You'll write clearly for different purposes, such as letters, emails, and reports.
  • You'll develop your spelling, punctuation, and grammar.
  • You'll practise speaking and listening in structured discussions and presentations.
  • You'll learn how to identify the main points and purpose of a text.
  • You'll build skills in organising and planning your written work.

How you will learn

You'll learn in a classroom at Varndean College, with daytime sessions across the full academic year. Assessment is through written tasks and a spoken communication component. You'll be assessed on reading, writing, and speaking and listening. Tasks are set and marked against the Pearson Edexcel Level 1 standard. Your tutor will give you feedback throughout the year to help you prepare for the final assessments.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Varndean College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Customer service assistant: clear written and spoken English is essential
  • Receptionist: reading, writing, and communication used daily
  • Retail sales assistant: writing, reading, and speaking with customers
  • Care assistant: documentation and communication with clients and colleagues
  • Warehouse operative: reading instructions and completing written records
  • Administrator: emails, letters, and everyday written tasks

What you could study next

  • Functional Skills English Level 2: the GCSE English equivalent, recognised by employers and colleges when they ask for GCSE English or equivalent. The natural next step after Level 1.
  • GCSE English Language: available at some colleges for those who want the GCSE grade itself, particularly useful for university entry.
  • Level 2 vocational qualifications: many require Level 1 or Level 2 English as part of the programme.
Apply on varndean.ac.uk →
Apply now →

Related courses at Varndean College

More courses near you