This course develops essential reading, writing and communication skills for everyday work and life. Learners will build confidence in understanding simple texts, writing clearly for different purposes, and taking part in discussions, preparing them for progression to level 1.
Functional Skills
Why join our Functional Skills courses?
Our Functional Skills English and maths are courses are designed to help you improve your confidence and skills in English and maths. These can then be used in employment and in everyday life.
Our courses range from entry level to Level 2, which is equivalent to a GCSE grade C or the new grade 4.
In order to gain a Functional Skills English qualification, you are required to complete and pass a reading exam, a writing exam and a speaking and listening assessment.
For a Functional Skills Maths qualification, you are required to sit and pass an exam, composed of a non-calculator and calculator section.
These courses are free to access if you are 19 years+ and have not previously attained a GCSE grade C/grade 4 or higher.

Courses
Functional Skills English Entry 3
Functional Skills English Level 1
Develop your English skills to GCSE level 3 equivalent standard. This covers Writing, Reading and Speaking & Listening assessment topics. Not only will you develop your English skills towards a qualification, but you will also develop employability and digital skills, such as communication, provides progression onto Level 2
Functional Skills English Level 2
Offers an opportunity to develop your English skills to GCSE level 4 equivalent standard. This covers Writing, Reading and Speaking & Listening assessment topics. Not only will you develop your English skills towards a qualification, but you will also develop employability and digital skills, such as communication.
Functional Skills English Level 2 – Distance Learning (Online)
A nationally recognised qualification equivalent to a GCSE level 4. Essential Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening skills studied through flexible distance online learning making it easy to fit learning around your schedule. Complete lessons from home or anywhere with internet access.
Functional Skills Maths Entry 3
This Entry Level 3 Functional Skills Maths course is perfect for adults who want to strengthen their everyday maths skills and take the next step in their learning journey by gaining a nationally recognised qualification to support entry into employment and further education. Delivered in a local setting in a relaxed environment.
Functional Skills Maths Level 1
Build your confidence with numbers and gain essential maths skills for everyday life, work, and study. Whether you're preparing for employment, an apprenticeship, or progressing to Level 2, this course provides a solid foundation in practical maths. Delivered in community venues with expert tutor support, interactive resources, and flexible study options, you’ll be guided every step of the way toward achieving a nationally recognised qualification.
Functional Skills Maths Level 2
Designed for adult learners, this flexible programme in community venues helps you develop practical maths skills for everyday life, work, and further study. This nationally recognised qualification is a great alternative to GCSE Maths.
Functional Skills Maths Level 2 Distance Learning (Online)
Fully online Functional Skills Maths Level 2 course making it easy to fit learning around your schedule. Designed for adult learners, this flexible programme helps you develop practical maths skills for everyday life, work, and further study. This nationally recognised qualification is a great alternative to GCSE Maths.
Practical Skills
Portfolio based qualification, a practical course that build communication and teamwork skills through portfolio-based activities, supporting confidence, personal growth and progression.
Cultural English
A short course of 5 weeks helps learners understand British idioms, everyday language, and cultural practices, giving them the confidence and knowledge they need to succeed in Functional Skills English courses.
Writing for purpose
A short course that develops practical writing skills. Learners will focus on producing clear, accurate and well-structured texts for a range purposes and audience, including emails, letters, reports and forms. The course supports progression in education, employment and everyday communication.
English Bridging Skills
A short course, building your confidence with English in a friendly, supportive environment. This community-based course is designed for adults who want to refresh their reading, writing and communication skills and prepare for further learning, work, or everyday life. Whether you're returning to education, building on gaps in skills and knowledge to progress onto a qualification or simply want to feel more confident with English, this bridging course offers a gentle introduction to key concepts in a relaxed, informal setting.
Maths Bridging Skills
A short course, building your confidence with numbers in a friendly, supportive environment. This community-based course is designed for adults who want to refresh their maths skills and prepare for further learning, work, or everyday life. Whether you're returning to education, building on gaps in skills and knowledge to progress onto a qualification or simply want to feel more confident with maths, this bridging course offers a gentle introduction to key concepts in a relaxed, informal setting.
Where can you get more information?
You can email your queries to faces@sheffield.gov.uk and someone will get back to you.
These courses can also lead to a range of work opportunities. See links below for some ideas: