Based on your Initial Assessment (IA) results, you've been recommended for a specific support pathway in English and/or Maths aimed at furthering your numeracy and literacy skills. This article will help you understand what each option means and the commitment required.
What Does My Recommendation Mean?
Your Initial Assessment identified your current confidence, qualifications and skills in English and Maths, guiding us to recommend the support that gives you the best chance of success in your apprenticeship. Your recommendation falls into one of two categories: Functional Skills (FS) Qualifications or Numeracy/Literacy Support.
Recommendation Type | Goal | Commitment |
Functional Skills (FS) Qualification | To achieve a formal, nationally recognised Level 2 qualification, equivalent to a GCSE grade 4 (C). | Mandatory completion of learning and formal exams if you opt in. |
Numeracy and/or Literacy Support | To develop practical, job-relevant skills and confidence in a non-examinable format. | Access to flexible, asynchronous learning resources. |
❓ Functional Skills Qualification
If your email recommends a Functional Skills English and/or Maths qualification, here’s what you need to know:
What is the NCFE Functional Skills Level 2 Qualification?
Functional Skills Level 2 qualifications, awarded by bodies like NCFE, are national qualifications in Maths and English that are widely recognised as being equivalent to a GCSE grade 4 (C). The purpose of these qualifications is to demonstrate proficiency and the ability to apply practical skills to solve problems in the workplace and real-life situations.
Maths Level 2: Demonstrates the ability to apply mathematical thinking effectively to solve problems.
English Level 2: Demonstrates the ability to read, write, speak, listen, and communicate effectively for a range of purposes.
Is there an exam for Functional Skills?
Yes, if you opt in to the Functional Skills qualification, you will be required to take a formal, externally set assessment (exam).
Functional Skills Maths Level 2 is typically assessed by one external assessment divided into a non-calculator and a calculator section.
Functional Skills English Level 2 is assessed via external assessments for Reading and Writing, and a controlled assessment for Speaking, Listening, and Communicating.
Do I have to complete the qualification?
Yes, if you choose to opt-in to complete the qualification (you make this decision when completing and signing your training plan), you are required to complete all learning and successfully take the exams to pass and gain the formal qualification.
📚 Numeracy and Literacy Support
If the email you’ve received from us, recommends additional Numeracy and/or Literacy support, please read on:
What is Numeracy and Literacy Support for?
This is enhanced practical skills support offered via a self-paced course. It is designed to develop practical, job-relevant skills in English and Maths that are most beneficial to your professional success and overall apprenticeship completion.
No formal examinations or testing whatsoever are required for this support.
The curriculum is focused on direct application to your apprenticeship role.
Do I need to finish the Numeracy and Literacy course?
No, but we highly recommend you access the materials we offer and engage with them as well as letting your coach know if you feel you need more support in this area
⚖️ General Questions
Do I have to follow the recommendation?
No, the decision is between you and your line manager. While the recommendation is based on your Initial Assessment to give you the best chance of success, opting in to Functional Skills or engaging with the enhanced support is a choice you should make in discussion with your manager.
Are there any other questions I should ask myself?
Will this affect my apprenticeship status?
No, participating in the enhanced practical skills support will not change your apprenticeship status in any way - we believe it will enhance your learning.
Does the support take up a lot of time?
The enhanced practical skills support is self-paced and designed to be flexible to fit around your work and learning schedule.
Do I already have a GCSE or equivalent?
The onboarding form asked this question. If you want more details on what counts as an equivalent qualification to a GCSE in Maths and English, you can find them in the relevant support article here.