Free Functional Skills English Level 1 in Scunthorpe. Classes run at Ashby Community Hub, part-time during the day. The course covers reading, writing, and speaking and listening, giving you a solid foundation in everyday English. At around 55 hours in total, it fits around other commitments. You'll start with an initial assessment so the team can confirm this is the right level for you. A level 1 functional skills english qualification sits below the GCSE English equivalent; if you're aiming for that gcse english alternative at Level 2, this is the step before it.
Who this course is for
Our English courses enable you to improve your English skills. We deliver courses for all levels of English, including introductions to reading and writing, moving all the way through to an equivalent to a grade 4 (C) GCSE. The level 1 qualification is a basic entry level if you have very limited knowledge of English. You will be provided with the opportunity to improve your English skills through, reading, writing and Speaking and Listening. We provide a welcoming learning environment with excellent learning resources and facilities. Tutors are experienced, well qualified and offer industry experience within their subjects.
Entry requirements
Before starting this course, you will need to attend an initial assessment. This will give us the information we need about your skills and abilities and will help us to decide which course and level will be most suitable for you. You must also complete an online induction. If you already have a comparable qualification at a higher level than the result of the initial assessment, you may not be eligible to study the course. You must be aged 19+ on 31 August 2026 to join this course.
What you will learn
You'll read and understand everyday texts, including signs, forms, and short articles.
You'll write clearly for practical purposes, such as messages, notes, and simple documents.
You'll develop your speaking and listening skills for everyday situations.
You'll build confidence using English in real contexts like work, appointments, and community life.
You'll practise grammar, punctuation, and spelling at Level 1 standard.
How you will learn
You'll learn in a classroom at Ashby Community Hub, with a tutor guiding sessions on reading, writing, and speaking and listening. Assessment is through tasks and tests set by City and Guilds. These cover the three main skill areas: reading, writing, and speaking and listening. You'll be assessed when you and your tutor agree you're ready.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Ashby Community Hub will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Customer service assistant: clear written and spoken English is expected
Care assistant: reading care plans and writing notes requires Level 1 English
Warehouse operative: reading instructions and completing paperwork
Retail assistant: serving customers and handling written tasks
Receptionist: writing messages and communicating clearly with visitors
Classroom teaching assistant: supporting pupils requires confident English
What you could study next
Functional Skills Qualification in English Level 2: the recognised GCSE English equivalent. Employers and colleges that ask for GCSE English grade 4 or above accept Level 2 Functional Skills in its place. It's the natural next step after Level 1.
GCSE English Language: available at some colleges for adults who want the traditional qualification route.
