Free Functional Skills English Level 1 in March. Classes run at The March Community Centre. Daytime sessions run part-time, so you can fit study around work, caring, or other commitments. Over 11 months, you'll develop practical reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills you can use at work and in everyday life. Before you start, you'll complete a short initial assessment so the course can be tailored to your level. A level 1 functional skills english qualification sits one step below GCSE grade 4, making it a recognised gcse english alternative for many employers and colleges.
Who this course is for
Our accredited Functional Skills English course gives you the essential, practical skills in English that you can apply at work, at home or in your community by developing your reading, writing, speaking, listening and communication skills. You will gain confidence in using English in everyday life and work situations such as: - Supporting with your children's English homework - Writing persuasive letters and reports - Being creative and writing stories and poems - Being confident in public speaking and delivering presentations - Identifying relevant information from pieces of text - Meeting employer needs to support employment or progression in work
Entry requirements
Prior to starting the course, you will be required to complete an initial assessment and meet with your tutor. This will help us understand your current starting point and allow us to tailor the course to meet your specific needs.
What you will learn
You'll read and understand different types of texts, including workplace documents and everyday materials.
You'll write clearly for different purposes, such as emails, letters, and short reports.
You'll develop your speaking and listening skills for real conversations and discussions.
You'll use grammar, punctuation, and spelling accurately in your writing.
You'll build confidence identifying the main points and purpose of texts you read.
You'll practise communicating information clearly and appropriately for different audiences.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at The March Community Centre, covering reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Assessment is through a combination of tasks and a formal written exam set by City and Guilds. Speaking and listening is assessed separately. Your initial assessment helps shape how the course is delivered so it fits your starting point.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. The March Community Centre 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: reading care plans and writing notes daily
Retail assistant: handling written communications and instructions
Warehouse operative: reading safety instructions and completing paperwork
Receptionist: writing emails and speaking with visitors confidently
Teaching assistant: supporting reading and writing in a classroom
What you could study next
Functional Skills English Level 2: the step that matches GCSE English grade 4, recognised by most employers and colleges as a GCSE equivalent. A natural next step after Level 1.
GCSE English Language: available at some colleges for those who want a traditional GCSE grade.
Level 2 vocational qualifications in health and social care, business administration, or customer service often require Level 1 or Level 2 English alongside them.
