What are Functional Skills?
Functional Skills qualifications are nationally recognised in English and Maths that focus on real-world tasks – from writing clear emails to working with percentages.
They are designed to help you live, work, and study confidently in practical situations. Our site offers interactive, simple courses so you can gain these qualifications online.
These courses give you a recognised, nationally accredited qualification that never expires. For example, Functional Skills at Level 2 are equivalent to GCSE grade 4 (formerly C) in English and Maths, and they are widely accepted by employers, apprenticeships, colleges, and universities. Most apprenticeship standards require Functional Skills (Level 2 in English and Maths) if you don’t already have a GCSE, and learners complete them as part of their programme.
Who are Functional Skills for?
Common examples include:
Job seekers who must demonstrate reliable literacy and numeracy skills to employers.
Adult learners returning to study after a break, looking to refresh core skills for confidence and competence.
School leavers without a GCSE grade 4 (or equivalent) in English and/or maths, seeking a practical route to further education or employment.
Employees aiming to improve on-the-job communication or data-handling (from writing clearer emails to managing figures).
Anyone keen to strengthen everyday abilities – understanding bills, filling out forms, or working with numbers – through a recognised, hands-on qualification.
These qualifications are regulated and nationally accredited. Because they are formally recognised within the national framework, they carry the same weight as GCSEs for many purposes. Functional Skills are accepted as evidence for college courses, apprenticeships, job training, and job applications. Once you pass your exam, you’ll receive a nationally recognised certificate from the awarding body