Functional Skills English

Course Title: Pearson Functional Skills English – Level 1 and Level 2

Examining Body: Pearson Edexcel

Course Duration: One academic year (with flexible assessment windows depending on student progress and school provision)

Overview of the Course

  • Functional Skills English offers practical, skills-based learning designed to build confidence and competence in reading, writing, and speaking & listening.
  • The course prepares students to use English effectively in everyday life, further study, and employment.
  • It focuses on developing the ability to:
    • Understand and respond to written information
    • Communicate clearly and accurately in writing for different purposes
    • Participate in discussions and deliver spoken presentations
    • Apply English skills in real-life and workplace contexts
  • The qualification is ideal for students who need a recognised English qualification to progress to the next stage of education, training, or employment.

How the Course Is Examined

Functional Skills English is assessed through three components:

  1. Reading
    • On-screen or paper-based exam
    • Focus on understanding, interpreting, and comparing written texts
  2. Writing
    • On-screen or paper-based exam
    • Assesses clarity, accuracy, spelling, punctuation, and grammar
    • Includes writing tasks for purpose and audience, such as emails, letters, or reports
  3. Speaking, Listening and Communicating
    • Internally assessed and externally moderated
    • Involves group discussions and individual presentations
  • Students may sit assessments when ready, offering flexibility and the opportunity to progress at their own pace.

Further Information / Unit Details

  • Level 1 focuses on building core competencies and confidence in functional reading and writing skills.
  • Level 2 represents the standard expected in the workplace and is widely accepted as an alternative to a Grade 4 in GCSE English for many apprenticeships and courses.
  • Teaching includes:
    • Real-world reading tasks (articles, leaflets, instructions)
    • Practical writing tasks (emails, forms, letters, information texts)
    • Discussion skills (group work, presentations, active listening)
    • Exam practice, feedback, and revision of foundational literacy skills

Where the Qualification Can Lead

  • Progression routes include:
    • GCSE English Language (for those moving beyond FS Level 2)
    • Further vocational courses and Level 3 qualifications
    • A wide range of apprenticeships, many of which accept Functional Skills Level 2
    • Employment in sectors such as retail, healthcare, business administration, construction, hospitality, childcare, and customer service
  • Functional Skills English Level 2 is recognised by employers as evidence of strong communication and literacy skills essential for workplace success.