Boost your CV with Functional Skills

What are Functional Skills?

Previously known as ‘Skills for Life’, Functional Skills are English, maths and IT qualifications designed to give you practical knowledge, meaning you can take what you learn and apply it directly to your work or study.

We offer Level 1 and 2 courses in English, maths and IT. Find out more about Functional Skills here.

A Level 2 qualification in Functional Skills is equivalent to a grade 4-9 (C-A*) at GCSE.

They are assessed slightly different to GCSEs so can be good for those who struggled to pass at school. The questions start with a real-life situation and then you can use this information to help you answer the question.

 

How do Functional Skills help employability?

If you didn’t get a C or above at GCSE, it can be quite difficult to apply for certain jobs that require basic English and maths skills.

Most employers ask for at least a C grade in maths and English so it’s a really good idea to work towards gaining them. Interviews are becoming more an d more competitive and some employers might ask you to complete tests to ensure you have a good level of English and maths.

They are called Functional Skills for a reason! You might have had a negative experience at GCSE but Functional Skills are designed to link directly to the real world. This means no Shakespeare or algebra. Just simple and relevant skills that will support you through life.

In addition, doing an extra course to improve your grades shows you have a good work ethic and are dedicated to improvement. It’s very easy to give up when you don’t achieve at your first attempt. This kind of determination will be seen as a valuable skills by employers.

 

What else do Functional Skills help with?

Functional Skills aren’t just used for getting a job. They can help with many other career paths, too.

The can help you to enrol on an apprenticeship programme, get you into university and are also great for parents who want to help their kids with homework.

It would be wrong to say that Functional Skills are easier than GCSE. However, they are designed to be much more accessible as the exam questions can be applied to real-life situations.

 

Start a Functional Skills course today!

To find out more about Functional Skills, give us a call on 0800 433 7896. Our advisors will be able to talk you through your options and make sure you gain your maths and English grades.

Or browse our courses below: