Level 1 Functional Skills English in Kensington and Chelsea
CostFree if you're eligible
Duration18 weeks
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start4 Jan 2027
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding body
Free if you're 19 or over and don't have a GCSE grade 4 (C) or above in English, whatever you earn. If you already have one, fees apply. Contact Morley College London for more info.
Functional Skills English Level 1 Course in Kensington and Chelsea. Classes run at Morley College London Chelsea Campus, part-time during the day. Fees may apply depending on your age and circumstances, so check the college website for funding options. The course runs over 18 weeks and covers reading, writing, speaking, and listening at Level 1. It's a recognised gcse english alternative for adults who need a solid foundation in English before progressing further. You'll work through fiction and non-fiction texts and develop your writing skills across different purposes and audiences. Functional Skills English Level 1 is the step before Level 2, which is the gcse english equivalent recognised by employers and universities.
Who this course is for
This course prepares you for the AQA English Language GCSE examinations. An English Language GCSE is an essential qualification for anyone wanting to practise reading skills and use these to develop creative and persuasive writing. You will engage with fiction and non-fiction texts and develop your critical thinking across a range of topics. It is one of the key qualifications required by employers and universities and will improve your job and education prospects. More details can be found here: https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/english/gcse/english-language-8700/subject-content.
Entry requirements
This is an accredited Level 2 GCSE course. You should have native or near-native English language skills and you should already be reading English fiction and non-fiction. You will need to do an initial pre-course assessment before being accepted onto this course. Those who do not yet have the required skills will be referred to Functional Skills courses.
What you will learn
You'll read and understand a range of texts, including fiction and non-fiction.
You'll identify the main points and purpose of what you read.
You'll write clearly for different purposes, such as to inform or persuade.
You'll use correct spelling, punctuation, and grammar in your writing.
You'll develop your speaking and listening skills in everyday contexts.
You'll build your ability to respond to texts with your own ideas.
How you will learn
Classes are classroom based, with a mix of reading tasks, writing practice, and group discussion. You'll work through texts and written exercises during sessions. Assessment is by a formal written exam set by Pearson Edexcel, covering reading and writing. There is also a speaking and listening component. Your tutor will use an initial assessment to confirm the right level for you and plan your learning from there.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Morley College London Chelsea Campus 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.
Receptionist: reading and responding to queries accurately every day.
Care assistant: writing records and communicating with colleagues and families.
Retail assistant: handling written instructions, emails, and customer requests.
Warehouse operative: reading safety notices and completing written logs.
Teaching assistant: supporting learners with reading and writing tasks.
What you could study next
Functional Skills English Level 2: the level 1 functional skills english qualification leads directly here. Level 2 is the GCSE English equivalent recognised by employers and universities, and it opens doors to apprenticeships, further study, and many job applications.
GCSE English Language: if you want to sit the full GCSE exam, Level 2 Functional Skills or strong Level 1 skills are a natural stepping stone.
Level 2 vocational qualifications: many courses in health and social care, business, and childcare require Level 2 English as an entry condition.
