Level 1 Functional Skills English in Birmingham – South & City College Birmingham Hall Green Campus – Evening
CostFree if you're eligible
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2027
Study modePart-time
AttendanceEvening
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. Evening classes run at South & City College Birmingham Hall Green Campus, so you can fit study around work or other commitments. This level 1 functional skills english course covers reading, writing, and speaking and listening skills. The course takes one year part-time. When employers ask for GCSE English or equivalent, a functional skills english qualification at Level 1 shows you have the foundation skills they need. It also prepares you for Level 2, which is the recognised GCSE English alternative.
Who this course is for
At four of our campuses across Birmingham, we have courses aimed at improving the literacy and numeracy of adults. We offer Functional Skills to adults who would like to develop these skills beyond an Entry 3 qualification, which is the entry requirement. Our courses will help to support and develop confidence with English.
Entry requirements
Proof of a qualification at Entry 3 level or equivalent and a successful initial assessment so that we can assess the functional skill level you need to be placed on.
What you will learn
You'll read and understand different types of texts, including everyday documents and longer pieces of writing.
You'll write clearly for different purposes and audiences, including letters, forms, and short reports.
You'll develop your spelling, punctuation, and grammar at Level 1 standard.
You'll speak and listen effectively in discussions and exchanges.
You'll build the English skills used in health and social care settings, including written communication with colleagues and service users.
How you will learn
Classes are classroom based and run in the evening on a part-time timetable. You'll be assessed through written tasks and speaking and listening activities. Assessment covers reading, writing, and spoken communication. You'll have an initial assessment before you start so the centre can confirm Level 1 is the right level for you and plan your learning accordingly.
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
Care assistant: entry-level role in residential or home care
Healthcare support worker: supporting clinical staff in NHS or private settings
Domiciliary care worker: providing personal care in people's homes
Support worker: working with adults with disabilities or mental health needs
Nursery assistant: supporting early years staff in childcare settings
What you could study next
Functional Skills English Level 2: the recognised GCSE English alternative, required by many employers and further education courses.
Level 2 Certificate in Health and Social Care: the next step toward working in a care role, building on the foundation skills from Level 1.
Level 2 Award or Certificate in Understanding Safeguarding or First Aid: short qualifications useful in care and support roles.
