Level 1 Functional Skills English in Rochester

CostFree if you're eligible
Duration10 months
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
StartFlexible
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body

Free if you're 19 or over and don't have a GCSE grade 4 (C) or above in English, whatever you earn. If you already have one, fees apply. Contact Medway Council for more info.

About this course

Functional Skills English Level 1 in Rochester. Classes run at Medway Adult Education Rochester, with daytime sessions that fit around other commitments. You'll start with an initial assessment so the centre can place you on the right level. The course builds your reading, writing, and communication skills over 10 months part-time. It's a recognised GCSE English equivalent, and when employers ask for GCSE English or equivalent, a level 1 functional skills english qualification counts toward that. You must be 19 or over and not already hold a GCSE English at grade 4 or above.

Who this course is for

We offer a range of English courses, with options that include morning, afternoon or evening classes. Entry level classes provide a short introduction to formal classroom learning. They are designed to build up the basic English skills necessary for everyday life, and will allow you to gain confidence before progressing on to a longer English course.

We also offer courses for more confident English learners. These courses are designed for those learners, who are confident that they can commit to longer periods of study. These courses can lead to gaining a Functional Skills English qualification at either level 1 or level 2.

Entry requirements

You must be 19 years old or above and have no current English GCSE at grade 4 or higher (A*-C). Before you begin your studies, an initial Maths assessment will take place in order to help us to place you on the most suitable course. In order to help you be successful with your studies, it is expected that you attend classes on a regular basis (at least 90% of the time). You will also be expected to make enough time to complete your homework and practise your maths skills between sessions.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop your reading skills for everyday texts, forms, and documents.
  • You'll improve your writing, including spelling, punctuation, and grammar.
  • You'll practise spoken communication and listening in real contexts.
  • You'll build skills for writing clearly in work and personal situations.
  • You'll learn to understand and respond to different types of written information.

How you will learn

You'll attend classroom sessions at Medway Adult Education Rochester. Learning is supported by homework and independent practice between sessions. You're expected to attend at least 90% of classes and complete work outside of sessions. Assessment is through a written exam and a speaking and listening assessment, both set by City and Guilds.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Medway Adult Education Rochester 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
  • Care assistant: communication skills matter in every care role
  • Retail sales assistant: reading, writing, and customer interaction daily
  • Warehouse operative: workplace forms, instructions, and safety notices
  • School support worker: literacy skills needed for classroom assistance
  • Administrator: writing emails, letters, and handling documents

What you could study next

  • Functional Skills Qualification in English Level 2: the GCSE English alternative recognised by employers and colleges. The natural next step after Level 1.
  • GCSE English Language: if you want the traditional qualification, Level 1 builds the foundation.
  • Level 2 vocational qualifications in health and social care, business administration, or childcare: many require Level 1 or Level 2 English alongside them.

Related courses at Medway Adult Education Rochester

More courses near you