Functional Skills
Improve your English and Maths skills for life, work and learning
Functional Skills qualifications help adults develop practical English and Maths skills that can be used every day. Whether you want to progress at work, move into further learning, support your family, or build confidence, Functional Skills can help you achieve your goals.
Our courses are designed specifically for adults and are delivered in a friendly, supportive environment by experienced tutors. We offer courses from Entry Level through to Level 2 at venues across Gloucestershire and online where available.
Build your confidence. Improve your opportunities. Achieve your goals.
Whether you need English or Maths for work, further study, an apprenticeship or everyday life, our nationally recognised Functional Skills qualifications can help you take the next step.
Choose your course
Select the subject you are interested in to view the course content and start the application process.
Why choose Functional Skills?
A Functional Skills qualification can help you:
- Improve your confidence
- Access new job opportunities
- Progress to apprenticeships
- Apply for further or higher education
- Develop practical skills for everyday life
- Gain a nationally recognised qualification
Level 2 Functional Skills qualifications are widely recognised and are equivalent to GCSE Grade 4, previously Grade C.
*Pearson National Achievement Rates for Functional Skills English 2024/25 - 57%
**Pearson National Achievement Rates for Functional Skills Maths 2024/25 - 35%
Functional Skills English
Functional Skills English helps you develop the reading, writing, speaking and communication skills needed for everyday life, work and further study.
You will learn how to:
- Write clear emails, letters and reports
- Read and understand information with confidence
- Complete forms and applications accurately
- Participate in discussions and express your ideas
- Improve spelling, grammar and punctuation
- Communicate effectively in a wide range of situations
Our courses support learners from Entry Level through to Level 2 and are designed to help you gain skills that employers and education providers value.
Apply for Functional Skills English
Functional Skills Maths
Functional Skills Maths helps you build the practical Maths skills needed for everyday life, work and learning.
You will learn how to:
- Work confidently with numbers
- Calculate percentages, fractions and decimals
- Manage budgets and understand bills
- Interpret charts, tables and graphs
- Solve practical problems using Maths
- Apply mathematical skills to real-life situations
From budgeting and measurement to data and problem-solving, Functional Skills Maths helps you build confidence and develop skills that can support career progression and further learning.
Apply for Functional Skills Maths
Free courses for eligible learners
Many Functional Skills courses are free for eligible learners. Before enrolling, we will carry out an assessment to identify the most suitable level and check that the course meets your needs.
What to expect
- Weekly classes designed to fit around work, family and other commitments
- Friendly and experienced tutors who understand the needs of adult learners
- A supportive learning environment where you can ask questions and build confidence
- Courses at venues across Gloucestershire, with selected online learning opportunities where available
- Support to prepare for your assessments
What our learners say
"It's never too late to get your English qualifications. Just go for it!"
Naomi
Functional Skills English
"Passing this course was genuinely one of the best achievements of my life."
Beth
Functional Skills Maths
"By studying you can achieve your goals and improve your life if you are prepared to work."
Jonathan
Functional Skills English
Start your journey today
Whether you are returning to learning after a break, preparing for a new career, taking the next step in your education or simply wanting more confidence in everyday life, our Functional Skills courses can help you succeed.