Learn More, Achieve More, Be More

Who is this course for?
This course is for anyone who wants to build their confidence and improve their everyday English skills whether you're just starting out, returning to learning, or looking to support your career goals. Functional Skills English is designed for real life, helping you to read, write, speak, and listen more effectively at home, at work, or in your community. Whether you’re aiming for a qualification, preparing for employment, or simply want to feel more confident communicating, this course is a great place to start or continue—your learning journey.

Entry Requirements
Please enrol onto a pre course interview so that we can identify the right starting level for you.

What you will learn
Level 1 helps you develop more independent communication skills for work, learning and daily life. You’ll build confidence with reading, writing, and speaking in a variety of real-world situations. You’ll learn to: Read and understand a range of texts, including emails, leaflets, and web content, Identify main ideas, details, and how texts are structured for different purposes, Understand and compare facts, opinions, and persuasive techniques, Write clearly and accurately in a range of formats (e.g. letters, articles, emails), Organise writing using paragraphs and appropriate tone, Use correct grammar, punctuation and spelling for clarity, Take part in discussions and give short presentations, Express ideas clearly and listen to others with respect, Communicate effectively in work or social settings. Level 1 is ideal if you're preparing for work or looking to improve your everyday communication. It can also help you move on to Level 2 or other qualifications.

How you will learn
You will gain knowledge via presentations, demonstrations, group discussions, question and answer sessions and practical exercises.

What will you need to bring
We will provide handouts and resources for your course. You will need to have pen and paper for additional notes.

How you will be assessed
Reading and writing tests are externally marked by the Awarding Body, with the speaking and listening being internally assessed and externally moderated by the Awarding Body.

Where next?
Once you have completed the qualificiation you can progress onto Level 2, or we'll support you in your next steps. We will offer helpful information, advice, and guidance to point you toward other courses that match your goals and interests.

What we expect from you
You are required to attend every session. The minimum required attendance for this course is 85%. Anything below this attendance will be reviewed by the Curriculum Development Manager and you may be withdrawn from the course and the outstanding course fees will still be payable. Please see our terms and conditions for more information. Havering Adult College requires its learners and staff to uphold the following good behaviour principles: - Act in a way that would not upset or offend others - Treat all staff and all other learners with respect at all times - Use appropriate language and not make remarks likely to offend; either verbally, in writing on or via social media - Attend regularly and arrive on time - If you are unable to attend or arrive on time, you must inform us by emailing your teacher or phoning 01708 434955 option 1, option 2 - Follow Health and Safety guidelines for the venue and those specifically related to the course you are attending - Turn off mobile phones whilst in class (except in an emergency) - Actively promote British values