Free Functional Skills English Level 2 in Basingstoke. Classes run at Skills 2 Achieve Basingstoke. Daytime sessions are part-time, running over around 6 months at a manageable pace. The course covers reading, writing, and spoken English to the standard employers and colleges recognise as a GCSE English equivalent. When employers ask for GCSE English or equivalent, a Level 2 functional skills english qualification meets that requirement. You'll have an initial assessment before you start, so the course is pitched at the right level for you.
Who this course is for
This course is for young people aged 16-19 (or 24 with an EHCP) who would like to improve their reading, writing and spoken English, perhaps to get a job or begin a course or training. It will help you to build your confidence to communicate well in everyday situations. Functional Skills English courses are included in all school leaver study programmes for anyone who hasn’t yet achieved grade 5 or above at GCSE. It's taken as part of our study programme which includes employability skills and the opportunity to participate in work experience and community projects.
If College or school isn’t for you then our study programme may be the right environment for you to gain these valuable skills to enable you to move forward.
Entry requirements
There are no formal entry requirements. You will have an initial assessment to establish which Functional Skills level of entry is right for you.
You'll have a discussion with one of our Skills2Achieve tutors about your hobbies and interests and your career and study goals.
What you will learn
You'll read and understand a range of texts, including workplace documents and everyday materials.
You'll write clearly and accurately for different purposes and audiences.
You'll use correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling in your writing.
You'll listen to and understand spoken information in formal and informal situations.
You'll speak clearly and confidently to communicate in discussions and presentations.
You'll identify the main points and purpose of texts you read.
You'll plan, draft, and check your written work.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions at Skills 2 Achieve Basingstoke, covering reading, writing, and spoken English. Assessment is by externally set and marked exams for reading and writing, plus a separate speaking and listening assessment. You'll need to pass each component to achieve the full qualification. Your tutor will work through practice tasks and past materials with you to prepare for each assessment.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Skills 2 Achieve Basingstoke will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Customer service assistant: clear written and spoken English is often required
Receptionist: reading, writing, and communication are core to the role
Care assistant: many employers ask for GCSE English or equivalent
Retail sales assistant: writing and communication used daily
Teaching assistant: Level 2 English is typically required for entry
Administrator: accurate writing and reading are essential
Warehouse operative: safety and process documents require solid reading skills
What you could study next
Level 3 qualifications in your chosen subject area: many Level 3 courses require Level 2 English as an entry condition.
Functional Skills Maths Level 2: often taken alongside or after English to meet employer and college requirements.
Apprenticeships: most apprenticeship programmes require Functional Skills English Level 2 or GCSE English grade 4 or above.
Access to Higher Education Diploma: universities require Level 2 English as a foundation for entry.
