What are Functional Skills qualifications?
Level 2 functional skills qualifications provide practical skills in English and mathematics equivalent to a GCSE grade C/4. They focus on applying these skills to real-world scenarios, which is crucial for employment and further education. In English, this involves demonstrating proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking/listening within diverse contexts. Mathematics at Level 2 requires the practical application of numeracy skills, like calculations and data interpretation, in everyday situations. They are formal qualifications assessed under exam conditions.
Please note that new regulations have come into place regarding functional skills qualifications. You can read more here.
Who needs to complete functional skills learning and exams?
Apprentices who do not have existing level 2 qualifications in maths and English will be required to study towards and complete these qualifications as part of their apprenticeship unless they have opted out (i.e. agreed with their employer these qualifications are not necessary for their role). Learn more about opting out of functional skills here.
What does the Functional Skills pathway look like for those not opted out?
Functional Skills Journey Timeline
After the commencement of the apprenticeship, known as ‘Flying Start’ (Day 0), the following timeline applies:
Day 0-21: If you could not submit evidence in your initial application, apprentices should use this time to submit their existing evidence or to request evidence from their school or exam board. More details about submitting acceptable evidence can be found in the Functional Skills Evidence Requirements article.
Day 5-40: Apprentices must complete their diagnostic assessment unless their certificates have been accepted. This should be finished by Day 40 to ensure a smooth transition to learning. Apprentices will have access to both asynchronous learning options, which can be completed at their convenience, and synchronous sessions for those who need them. More information about learning can be found in the Functional Skills Learning Support article.
Day 40-6 months: Apprentices who are required to sit official qualifications will then be contacted regarding an exam booking and should aim to take these exams within the first few months of starting the apprenticeship. You can learn more about the exams process in the Functional Skills Exams Process article.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Functional Skills learning count as off-the-job training (OTJ)?
No, Functional Skills learning is considered separate and does not count as off-the-job training. This is because although it is related to the apprenticeship, OTJ is only valid if it is developing the particular knowledge, skills and behaviours from the apprenticeship standard your programme is based on.
What is the difference between Initial Assessments and Functional Skills Exams?
Initial Assessments are evaluations taken during the application process to gauge an apprentice's foundational skills. Functional Skills Exams are the exams that lead to the official qualifications.
Is there a cost for Functional Skills exams?
Apprentices funded by the Government Levy receive up to three funded attempts at each exam. Additional attempts may require funding through an external provider, where further information will be provided if necessary.