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Level 1 Functional Skills English Online

CostFree if you're eligible
Duration12 weeks
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryOnline
Start24 Feb 2027
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel 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 Richmond and Hillcroft Adult and Community College for more info.

Apply now →Check if you're eligible

About this course

Functional Skills English Level 1 Course. Study online, at your own pace, over 12 weeks. You'll need to complete an initial assessment before starting. The entry requirement is Entry Level 3 Functional Skills English, and the assessment confirms this is the right level for you. The course covers reading, writing, and speaking and listening, using practical, everyday examples. A level 1 functional skills english qualification is recognised by employers as a GCSE English alternative. Fees cover tuition and the exam.

Who this course is for

Do you want to improve your English skills for everyday life and work? This Functional Skills Level 1 English course will help you gain a nationally recognised qualification. You'll improve your reading, writing, and speaking skills through practical, real-life examples. This course is perfect for anyone looking to build confidence and operate effectively in life and work. You will need to complete an initial assessment before starting this course.

Entry requirements

You need to complete an English initial assessment to check your level. The entry requirement for this course is Entry Level 3 Functional Skills English.

What you will learn

  • You'll read and understand different types of texts, including everyday documents and workplace materials.
  • You'll write clearly for different purposes, such as emails, letters, and short reports.
  • You'll develop your speaking and listening skills for work and daily life.
  • You'll practise grammar, punctuation, and spelling in context.
  • You'll build skills to communicate effectively in real situations.

How you will learn

You study online and work through the course materials at your own pace. Learning is built around practical, real-life examples. Assessment includes a formal exam set by Pearson Edexcel. You'll complete an initial assessment before the course begins so your learning can be planned at the right level.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Richmond and Hillcroft Adult and Community College 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
  • Care assistant: reading records and communicating with clients daily
  • Retail assistant: writing, reading, and talking with customers
  • Administrator: emails, letters, and workplace documents
  • Warehouse operative: reading instructions and completing paperwork
  • Teaching assistant: supporting literacy in a classroom setting

What you could study next

  • Functional Skills English Level 2: the recognised GCSE English equivalent, accepted by most employers and colleges as proof of English ability at GCSE standard.
  • GCSE English Language: a formal qualification if you want to progress to A Levels or certain college courses.
  • Level 2 vocational qualifications in areas such as business, health and social care, or childcare, which often require Level 1 or Level 2 English.
Apply on rhacc.ac.uk →Check if you're eligible
Apply now →Check if you're eligible

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