Functional Skills for Adults

Achieving a minimum 4/C GCSE grade is usually a requirement for access to higher education or an apprenticeship program. However, many people may have failed their GCSE, not taken a retake, or misplaced their certificate. In these cases, the choice is between retaking your GCSE or getting an equivalent qualification (e.g. a Level 2) such as a functional skill. GCSE exams are only available on a biannual basis, whereas functional skills offer year-round options for those looking for a quick certification process. Functional skills courses for adults are also more compressed than regular GCSE courses.We highly recommend checking out Pass Functional Skills’ adult functional skills course. 

Advantages of Functional Skills for Adults

Unlike GCSEs, functional skills are a commendable alternative. Pass Functional Skills specialises in providing courses and assessments in maths and English. Functional skills offer an accelerated process. Some students can schedule, sit and receive their exam results in as little as 2 weeks. This makes functional skills a great option for those juggling childcare or work commitments. Unlike GCSEs, which require a longer period of time, functional skills offer examinations every week from Monday to Saturday. Pass Functional Skills offers various time slots each day, so those with busy schedules can continue their education without interruption.

Functional Skills Courses and Exams

Mathematics

Pass Functional Skills’ mathematics course encompasses a comprehensive curriculum covering all essential test topics. Abundant practice questions and review videos ensure thorough preparation. Mock exams integrated into the curriculum further enhance readiness for the two-hour test. Examinees complete the mathematics component of the exam from home under online invigilation, comprising a 90-minute calculator section and a 30-minute non-calculator examination.

English

Pass Functional Skills’ English course comprises three separate tests evaluating speaking, listening, and communication (SLC) skills, as well as reading and writing proficiency. The course includes review sections and exam-style questions, with AI-powered mock tests facilitating practice for lengthy response questions. The SLC test is conducted separately, while the reading and writing exams are typically scheduled within a two-hour window. Success in all three components is necessary to obtain the functional skills qualification, with all exams proctored online from home.

Conclusion

To sum up, functional skills provide a flexible and quick way forward for adults looking to progress in their education, offering an alternative to the typical GCSE pathway. Pass Functional Skills offers access to courses and exams, making it easy and fast for adults looking to balance adult life with further learning.

Written by

PassFunctionalSkills Team

We help thousands of students get their Functional Skills Qualifications.