Level 1 Functional Skills English Course. Study online at your own pace, so it fits around work, family, or other commitments. Funding may be available depending on your circumstances, and fees may apply for others. This functional skills english course covers reading, writing, and speaking and listening skills you can use in everyday life and work. It typically takes around 3 months to complete. The course is recognised as a GCSE english alternative by many employers and training providers. You'll earn the NCFE Functional Skills qualification in English at Level 1, a level 1 functional skills english certificate.
Who this course is for
The NCFE Functional Skills qualification in English at Level 1 is an ideal qualification for candidates wishing to develop practical, transferable skills in English in order to work confidently, effectively and independently in life. It is suitable for a wide range of individuals and is fundamental to the successful completion of various wider qualifications and frameworks, such as Foundation Learning, the Diploma and Apprenticeships. It consists of three units:
Speaking, Listening and Communication
Reading
Writing
Entry requirements
This qualification is suitable for candidates aged 14 and above.
What you will learn
You'll develop speaking and listening skills for everyday and work situations.
You'll practise communicating clearly and confidently in a range of contexts.
You'll read and understand different types of texts, including workplace documents.
You'll write clearly and accurately for different purposes and audiences.
You'll use grammar, punctuation, and spelling correctly in your writing.
You'll apply English skills independently in practical, real-life situations.
How you will learn
You study online, working through materials at your own pace. The NCFE qualification is assessed across three units: Speaking, Listening and Communication; Reading; and Writing. Each unit is assessed separately. Assessment is through set tasks that test your practical English skills. You complete these online. There is no formal exam in a test centre for the speaking and listening component; that unit is assessed through a task-based activity.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Side by Side Training 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, writing, and communication skills used daily
Care assistant: documentation and communication are core to the role
Retail assistant: reading instructions, writing notes, talking with customers
Warehouse operative: reading safety signs and completing paperwork
Administrator: emails, letters, and records require solid English skills
What you could study next
Level 2 Functional Skills English: the next step up, and the recognised GCSE english equivalent that many employers and courses require.
GCSE English Language: available through some adult education providers if you want a traditional GCSE grade.
Level 2 vocational qualifications and apprenticeships: many require Level 1 or Level 2 English as a condition of entry, so this qualification opens those doors.
