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Functional Skills English Level 1 in Richmond upon Thames

CostFREE
Duration33 weeks
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start22 Sep 2026
Study modePart-time
AttendanceEvening
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
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About this course

Functional Skills English Level 1 in Richmond upon Thames. Evening classes run at Richmond College, part-time over 33 weeks. Tuition fees may apply depending on your circumstances.

The course builds your reading, writing, and communication skills for everyday life and work. You'll practise spelling, grammar, and punctuation through real writing tasks. You'll also develop your speaking and listening skills. This qualification is a recognised GCSE English alternative for learners who want to strengthen their English at Level 1.

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

Who this course is for

These are part-time courses suitable for adults (over 19 years old) that have been out of full-time education for some time. Functional Skills is for students who need to improve their reading and writing skills. On the course, you will develop your writing of various pieces, which demand accuracy in spelling, grammar and punctuation. You will learn to write for real-life situations and gain confidence in reading, writing and speaking so that this will have a positive impact on future-prospects.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop your reading skills across a range of texts and formats.
  • You'll write clearly and accurately, with attention to spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
  • You'll produce writing for different real-life purposes and audiences.
  • You'll build your speaking and listening skills for everyday and work situations.
  • You'll learn to identify the main points and meaning in written material.
  • You'll gain confidence communicating in written and spoken English.

How you will learn

You'll learn in a classroom at Richmond College during evening sessions. The course uses written tasks, reading exercises, and speaking and listening activities. Assessment is through a written exam and a speaking and listening task set by Pearson Edexcel. You'll work toward the standard required to pass the Level 1 qualification.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Customer service assistant, handles written and spoken communication with customers.
  • Administrator, prepares documents and correspondence in an office setting.
  • Care assistant, supports clients and completes written records.
  • Retail assistant, reads instructions and communicates clearly with colleagues and customers.
  • Warehouse operative, follows written instructions and completes paperwork accurately.

What you could study next

  • Functional Skills English Level 2, the next step up and a recognised GCSE English equivalent accepted by many employers and colleges.
  • GCSE English Language, if you want to sit the full GCSE qualification.
  • Level 2 vocational qualifications in areas such as business, health and social care, or customer service, many of which require Level 1 English as a starting point.
Apply on rutc.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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