Level 1 Functional Skills English in Birmingham – South & City College Birmingham Hall Green Campus
CostFree if you're eligible
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
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 South & City College Birmingham for more info.
Functional Skills English Level 1 in Birmingham. Classes run at South & City College Birmingham Hall Green Campus. This full-time daytime course runs over one year and is designed for learners working at or towards Entry Level 3 in English. You'll develop reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills across practical, everyday contexts. A level 1 functional skills english qualification is recognised by employers and colleges as a stepping stone toward GCSE-equivalent English. This free functional skills english course for adults and young people includes an initial assessment to confirm the right starting level.
Who this course is for
This programme is mainly for learners 16-18 or those with an EHCP who have additional needs and who want to progress into the world of employment.�If you are thinking about going into employment, work placements or�volunteering in your local community, this course will support you to develop confidence, build communication skills and give you more independence.�Volunteering in the Community/Gardening/Animal Care�Supported InternshipEmployment for all (18 to 30 No EHCP required)
Entry requirements
You will be working at or towards Entry 3 functional skills in maths and English.�If
What you will learn
You'll read and understand different types of texts, including everyday documents and written information.
You'll write clearly for different purposes, such as letters, forms, and short reports.
You'll develop speaking and listening skills for practical situations, including discussions and following instructions.
You'll build vocabulary and grammar to communicate more effectively in writing.
You'll practise understanding and responding to information given verbally.
You'll work toward producing organised, structured written responses.
How you will learn
You'll study in a classroom at South & City College Birmingham Hall Green Campus, with full-time daytime attendance across the week. Assessment for Functional Skills English Level 1 includes a reading test, a writing test, and a speaking, listening, and communication assessment. These are set and marked externally. Your progress will be supported through classroom activities and tasks that reflect real-life English use.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. South & City College Birmingham Hall Green Campus 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
Retail sales assistant: reading, writing, and communication used daily
Care assistant: documentation and verbal communication required
Warehouse operative: following written instructions and completing forms
Receptionist: writing emails, taking messages, and speaking with visitors
Teaching assistant: supporting literacy in classroom settings
What you could study next
Functional Skills English Level 2: the GCSE English equivalent, recognised by employers who ask for GCSE English or equivalent. The natural next step after Level 1.
GCSE English Language: available at some colleges for learners who want the GCSE grade itself.
Level 2 vocational qualifications: many require Level 1 or Level 2 English alongside the main subject, so completing this Course opens those doors.
