Free Functional Skills Maths Level 1 in Bedford. Classes run at Bedford College, full-time during the day. You'll have an initial assessment to confirm this is the right level for you, and the college will use it to plan your learning. The course covers practical maths skills you can use at work and in everyday life, from working with numbers and measurements to handling data and problem-solving. It typically takes one year to complete. A level 1 functional skills maths qualification sits below GCSE grade 4, making it a strong stepping stone toward a gcse maths equivalent.
Who this course is for
Course Summary can be found on the course page of the website
Entry requirements
Entry requirements can be found on the course page of the website
What you will learn
You'll work with whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and percentages in practical contexts.
You'll use measurements, shapes, and space to solve real problems.
You'll read and interpret charts, tables, and graphs.
You'll collect and organise data to draw simple conclusions.
You'll apply maths to everyday situations such as budgeting, time, and quantities.
You'll develop problem-solving skills using mathematical reasoning.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Bedford College, with daytime attendance across the full academic year. Assessment is by externally set and marked tests covering the skills in the qualification. There is no coursework portfolio. You'll sit a written exam when you and your tutor agree you're ready.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Bedford College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Retail assistant: maths skills support stock, cash handling, and pricing.
Warehouse operative: measuring, counting, and data recording on the job.
Care assistant: numeracy used in medication, records, and rotas.
Catering assistant: weights, measures, and portion calculations.
Apprentice in any trade: most apprenticeships require Level 1 maths as a minimum.
Administration assistant: data entry, spreadsheets, and basic financial tasks.
What you could study next
Functional Skills Qualification in Mathematics Level 2: the recognised GCSE maths equivalent. Many employers and colleges ask for Level 2 maths, so this is the natural next step after Level 1.
GCSE Mathematics: available at some colleges for those who want the traditional qualification route.
Vocational qualifications at Level 2: many courses in health, business, construction, and childcare require Level 1 maths as a starting point.
