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Free Functional Skills English Level 1 in Croydon

CostFREE
Duration17 weeks
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start25 Feb 2027
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Functional Skills English Level 1 Course in Croydon. Classes run at CALAT Thornton Heath Centre, part-time during the day.

You'll study speaking and listening, reading, and writing across a range of everyday topics. The course runs over 17 weeks and is delivered at a manageable pace, making it a practical option if you have other commitments.

You'll finish with a Pearson Edexcel Functional Skills Qualification in English at Level 1.

Who this course is for

We offer English and Maths courses from beginner up to GCSE level:

Functional Skills from beginners to pre-GCSE. GCSE qualifications. Flexible online English and Maths courses, from Entry 3 to Level 2. Short courses in writing to improve employment prospects.

Learn for free. All of our English and Maths courses are free to learners with the right to residence in the UK, including asylum-seekers. Please note that you must be 19+ and not on a student visa / overseas student.

What are Functional Skills? Functional Skills are recognised GCSE alternative qualifications, with a Functional Skills Level 2 course being equivalent to a GCSE grade 4 (C). However, there are some instances where functional skills Level 2 is not considered equivalent, such as for becoming a teacher, so do check before enrolling.

Why do I need Functional Skills? Functional Skills are essential as they equip you with the practical literacy, numeracy, and digital skills required for everyday tasks, employment, and further education. These skills enable better communication, problem-solving, and effective use of technology, making you more competent and confident in your personal and professional lives.

Entry requirements

Initial Assessment.

What you will learn

  • You'll read and understand a range of texts, including everyday documents and longer passages.
  • You'll write clearly for different purposes, such as letters, emails, and short reports.
  • You'll develop your spelling, punctuation, and grammar.
  • You'll practise speaking and listening skills in real conversations and discussions.
  • You'll learn how to present information clearly and respond to what others say.

How you will learn

You'll learn in a classroom at CALAT Thornton Heath Centre, with part-time daytime sessions over 17 weeks. Teaching covers reading, writing, and speaking and listening. You'll complete an initial assessment before the course begins so the centre can confirm the right level for you. Assessment is through a written exam and a speaking and listening task.

What you will need to bring

Please bring proof of your right to residence in the UK, such as a UK birth certificate, a UK or EU passport, or an Indefinite Leave to Remain Resident Permit. CALAT Thornton Heath Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Customer service assistant, communicates clearly with customers in person and in writing.
  • Receptionist, handles calls, emails, and written messages daily.
  • Care assistant, writes accurate notes and communicates with colleagues and clients.
  • Retail assistant, reads instructions and writes reports or stock records.
  • Administrator, produces letters, emails, and documents for an employer.

What you could study next

  • Functional Skills English Level 2, the qualification employers recognise as a GCSE English alternative and often required for further training.
  • GCSE English, the full qualification if you want to progress to A-levels or certain professional courses.
  • Level 2 Certificate in a vocational subject, where English Level 1 or 2 is a common entry requirement.
Apply on calat.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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