Functional Skills: Your Path to Confidence in Maths & English

Many people take Functional Skills because they need:

• A qualification to meet job or apprenticeship requirements

• Entry onto further study such as college or university

• A chance to refresh their skills after time away from learning

• More confidence with maths and English in real life

Unlike GCSEs, Functional Skills are focused on practical application—so what you learn is directly useful.

✍️ English Functional Skills

You’ll take three exams:

1. Reading – understanding information, viewpoints, and bias

2. Writing – producing clear, accurate, and purposeful writing

3. Speaking, Listening & Communicating – discussions and presenting ideas​

 

➗ Maths Functional Skills 

You’ll sit two papers:

• Non-calculator

• Calculator

 

Both test how you apply maths in real situations — from budgeting to interpreting graphs.

​✔ Written in plain, easy-to-follow language
✔ Lots of practice with step-by-step worked answers
✔ Flexible options — whole subject or bite-sized books
✔ Helps you organise, revise, and build confidence

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👉 Ready to boost your skills?

Explore the Functional Skills Books & Planner in the Resources section and take the first step today!

English Curriculum 

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• Reading: spotting purpose, tone, and viewpoint in texts

• Writing: spelling, grammar, punctuation, structure, and adapting style for audience

• Speaking & Listening: contributing to discussions, presenting confidently, and responding effectively

 

Maths Curriculum 

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The content is streamlined into three key areas:

1. Number – fractions, percentages, ratio, and calculations

2. Shape, Space & Measure – area, perimeter, volume, time, and units

3. Handling Data – graphs, charts, averages, and probability

 

✔ Less content than GCSEs
✔ More functional and practical for everyday life

I’ve designed my resources to take the stress out of Functional Skills learning.

📘 English Functional Skills Level 2 Workbook

• Covers the whole curriculum (Reading, Writing, Speaking & Listening)

• Step-by-step explanations with practice activities and exam-style questions

 

📗 Maths Functional Skills Resources

Choose the way you want to study:

• Complete Level 2 Maths Workbook – all topics in one book

• Topic-Focused Workbooks – Number, Shape & Measure, Handling Data

  • ✅ Great if you only need help with one area

  • ✅ Cheaper and easier to tackle in smaller chunks

 

📒 Maths Revision Planner

• A full 12-month planner with built-in journal

• Overview of the curriculum, clear revision notes, and worked examples

• Track what you’ve learned and what to focus on next