Level 1 Functional Skills Maths in Rochester

CostFree if you're eligible
Duration10 months
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
StartFlexible
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

Free if you're 19 or over and don't have a GCSE grade 4 (C) or above in maths, whatever you earn. If you already have one, fees apply. Contact Medway Council for more info.

About this course

Functional Skills Maths Level 1 in Rochester. Classes run at Medway Adult Education Rochester. Daytime sessions run part-time, so you can fit study around work, caring, or other commitments. You'll need to be 19 or over and not already hold a Maths GCSE at grade 4 or above. Before you start, you'll have an initial maths assessment so you're placed on the right course. The course covers practical, everyday maths skills: measuring, calculating areas, understanding payslips, and more. It typically takes 10 months to complete. A recognised free functional skills maths course for adults looking for a solid GCSE maths alternative.

Who this course is for

We offer a range of maths courses, with options that include morning, afternoon or evening classes. Entry level classes provide a short introduction to formal classroom learning. They are designed to build up the basic Maths skills necessary for everyday life, and will allow you to gain confidence before progressing on to a longer Maths course.

We also offer courses for more confident maths learners. These courses are designed for those learners, who are confident that they can commit to longer periods of study. These courses can lead to gaining a Functional Skills maths qualification at either level 1 or level 2.

Entry requirements

You must be 19 years old or above and have no current Maths GCSE at grade 4 or higher (A*-C). Before you begin your studies, an initial Maths assessment will take place in order to help us to place you on the most suitable course. In order to help you be successful with your studies, it is expected that you attend classes on a regular basis (at least 90% of the time). You will also be expected to make enough time to complete your homework and practise your maths skills between sessions.

What you will learn

  • You'll solve practical everyday maths problems used at home and at work.
  • You'll calculate measurements and areas, for tasks like home improvements.
  • You'll understand and interpret payslips, bills, and financial documents.
  • You'll work with numbers, fractions, percentages, and basic statistics.
  • You'll use maths to plan, compare, and make decisions in real situations.
  • You'll build the maths skills needed to progress to Level 2 or GCSE Maths.

How you will learn

You'll attend classroom-based sessions at Medway Adult Education Rochester. Learning is supported by regular homework and independent practice between classes. You're expected to attend at least 90% of sessions. Assessment is through a written exam set by Pearson Edexcel. You'll need to complete the exam to earn your Level 1 Functional Skills Maths certificate.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Medway Adult Education Rochester will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Warehouse operative: many roles ask for a level 1 maths qualification
  • Retail assistant: handles cash, stock counts, and basic calculations daily
  • Care assistant: supports record-keeping and medication measurement tasks
  • Catering assistant: uses weights, measures, and portion calculations at work
  • Construction labourer: measuring and calculating materials on site
  • Administrator: data entry, invoicing, and spreadsheet work in offices

What you could study next

  • Functional Skills Maths Level 2: the recognised GCSE maths equivalent. Completing Level 1 puts you in a strong position to move up. Many employers and colleges ask for Level 2 as a minimum.
  • GCSE Mathematics: if you want a traditional GCSE grade, this is the route. Medway Adult Education Rochester offers GCSE Maths courses for eligible adult learners.
  • Vocational qualifications at Level 2: many courses in health and social care, business, or construction require Level 1 or Level 2 maths as part of entry.

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