Free Level 1 Functional Skills English in Rotherham – Dearne Valley College

CostFREE
Duration18 weeks
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body

About this course

Free Functional Skills English Level 1 in Rotherham. Classes run at Dearne Valley College. Daytime sessions run part-time over 18 weeks, giving you time to fit study around other commitments. This level 1 functional skills english course covers reading, writing, and speaking and listening in everyday and work contexts. Level 1 Functional Skills English sits just below the GCSE English equivalent level, making it a recognised step toward Level 2.

Who this course is for

The course is designed for entrants to roles in which they want to develop their skills, progression and/or career opportunities. Please see the RNN Group course website for further information and advice.

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 letters, emails, and short reports.
  • You'll use correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling in your writing.
  • You'll speak clearly and listen carefully in discussions and conversations.
  • You'll identify the main points and details in spoken and written information.
  • You'll adapt your communication style to suit different situations and audiences.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Dearne Valley College. Teaching covers reading, writing, and speaking and listening. Assessment is by externally set and marked tests, plus a portfolio or task-based assessment for speaking and listening. You'll sit a reading test and a writing test. These are set by City and Guilds and marked externally.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Customer service assistant: clear written and spoken communication required
  • Care assistant: reading care plans and writing notes day-to-day
  • Warehouse operative: following written instructions and completing records
  • Retail assistant: serving customers and handling written tasks
  • Administrator: emails, letters, and basic office documents
  • Teaching assistant: supporting learners with reading and writing

What you could study next

  • Functional Skills English Level 2: the GCSE english equivalent, widely asked for by employers and colleges. The natural next step after Level 1.
  • GCSE English: available at some centres if you prefer the traditional qualification route.
  • ESOL qualifications: if English is not your first language, specialist ESOL courses build on your skills further.
  • Vocational qualifications at Level 2: many require Level 1 or Level 2 English as an entry condition.

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