Free Functional Skills Maths Level 1 in Widnes. Evening classes run at Riverside College Kingsway Campus, so you can fit study around work or other commitments. You'll have an initial assessment after you apply to confirm this is the right level for you. The course covers number, measure, and data handling at Level 1 and typically takes 5 months part-time. A level 1 functional skills maths qualification is a recognised step toward the Level 2 Certificate, which is the GCSE maths alternative accepted by many employers.
Who this course is for
Aimed at 19+ learners
Entry requirements
Initial assessment after application
What you will learn
You'll work with whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and percentages in everyday contexts.
You'll use basic measures including length, weight, capacity, and time.
You'll read and interpret simple charts, tables, and graphs.
You'll solve practical maths problems using addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
You'll check your answers and explain your working clearly.
You'll apply maths to real-life situations such as money, shopping, and schedules.
How you will learn
You'll study in a classroom at Riverside College Kingsway Campus on evening sessions. Learning is tutor-led with practice tasks and exercises throughout the course. Assessment is by a written external exam set and marked by Pearson Edexcel. You'll also complete an on-screen or paper-based test covering the skills taught on the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Riverside College Kingsway Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Warehouse operative: many roles ask for basic numeracy skills
Retail assistant: handling cash, stock counts, and pricing
Care assistant: recording measurements and following care plans
Catering assistant: weighing, portioning, and stock management
Administration assistant: working with data, invoices, and schedules
Customer service advisor: calculating costs and processing orders
What you could study next
Functional Skills Qualification in Mathematics Level 2: the natural next step. Level 2 is the GCSE maths equivalent accepted by employers, colleges, and apprenticeship providers. Many learners take this free functional skills maths course as a stepping stone to Level 2.
GCSE Mathematics: available at some colleges if you want a traditional GCSE grade.
Vocational qualifications at Level 2 or 3: many require Level 2 maths as an entry condition.
