Functional skills exams have become a crucial component of the educational system in the UK, offering essential qualifications in English and Mathematics. Both employers and educational institutions acknowledge the significance of these assessments, as they provide students with the necessary practical skills for success in business and daily life. This article from Cardiff Tutor Company explores the significance of functional skills examinations, their format, and how Pass Functional Skills may assist you in achieving your academic and career objectives.
Functional skills serve as the fundamental basis for practical education, focusing on the practical use of English and mathematics in real-life situations. A functional skills exam differs from a typical academic credential by emphasising the practical application of knowledge in real-life situations, making them highly applicable to everyday tasks and professional demands.
There are several significant advantages to undertaking a functional skills course. One benefit of obtaining this certification is that it enhances your employment by showcasing your technical expertise in critical domains such as problem-solving, communication, and numerical literacy. Demonstrating these essential foundational abilities also enhances your prospects of advancing to further education. A Level 2 functional skills qualification is frequently mandatory when seeking admission to apprenticeships and further education programmes at universities or colleges. In addition to professional and academic pursuits, acquiring skills via studying for a level 2 certificate would greatly benefit you in several aspects of your everyday life, such as financial management, comprehension of digital communication, and knowledge of contracts that you may come across.
Pass Functional Skills offers three unique levels to accommodate different degrees of ability.
Entry Level 3 is the optimal choice for beginners, as it emphasises fundamental abilities that are slightly more advanced than those at Level 1. Level 1 is equivalent to a grade of 2/3 (E/D) in GCSEs, as it builds upon fundamental abilities and prepares learners for more complex tasks. Level 2 is considered comparable to a grade 4 or C at GCSE. This means that achieving Level 2 is equivalent to completing the maths or English GCSE. Consequently, Level 2 is highly valued and serves as a strong and respected alternative qualification to GCSEs for both companies and further education institutions.
The English exam evaluates proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking/listening abilities. The reading and writing exams are administered online, with each exam typically lasting one hour. The speaking and listening exam is conducted in a group setting, where learners may be required to give a presentation and participate in a group discussion.
The mathematics examination consists of two sections: one that allows the use of calculators and another that does not, comparable to the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) examinations. However, rather than being administered as separate papers, both sections are combined into a single test. The non-calculator portion has a duration of 30 minutes, while the calculator section lasts for 90 minutes, resulting in a total exam length of 2 hours.
These tests are available online from Monday to Saturday throughout the year, offering a broad range of scheduling options. Hence, individuals have the option to select a suitable time that accommodates their existing commitments and responsibilities. Pass Functional Skills recognizes the importance of providing flexibility to learners with hectic schedules.
Functional skills assessments act as entry points to fresh opportunities and individual growth. If you aim to improve your basic skills, continue your education, or boost your chances of employability, Pass Functional Skills is here to support you throughout the process. Our examination strategies are efficient, encouraging, and adaptable, offering you the chance to discover your capabilities and reach your goals.