Functional Skills for Adults
When aiming for higher education or apprenticeships, achieving a minimum grade of 4/C at GCSE is often required. Yet, numerous adults may find themselves without GCSE qualifications due to various reasons, including failure to pass, inability to resit, or misplacement of certificates. In such scenarios, opting for a GCSE resit or an equivalent qualification, like a Level 2 functional skill, becomes essential. Unlike GCSEs, which are available only twice a year, functional skills offer a year-round alternative, catering to the needs of adults seeking a swift certification process. Additionally, functional skills for adults cover a more condensed curriculum compared to traditional GCSEs. Here at QTS Literacy Tutors, we recommend exploring the functional skills for adults provided by Pass Functional Skills.
Advantages of Functional Skills for Adults
Functional skills emerge as a commendable substitute for GCSEs, with Pass Functional Skills offering courses and exams in both mathematics and English, providing a streamlined pathway for adult learners. Notably, the efficiency of functional skills is remarkable, with individuals being able to book, sit exams, and receive results within as little as two weeks. This expedited process contrasts with the prolonged duration required for GCSEs, making functional skills an appealing option, especially for those juggling work or childcare commitments.
Pass Functional Skills conducts exams throughout the week, from Monday to Saturday, offering various time slots each day. This flexibility accommodates individuals with busy schedules, enabling them to pursue education without significant disruptions.
Functional Skills Courses and Exams
Mathematics
Pass Functional Skills’ mathematics course offers a comprehensive curriculum covering all essential exam topics. With revision videos and ample practice questions, the course ensures thorough preparation. Mock exams, integrated into the course, further assist in readiness for the 2-hour exam. The mathematics exam comprises a 30-minute non-calculator section and a 90-minute calculator section, both taken conveniently from home with an online invigilator.
English
Pass Functional Skills’ English course is structured around three distinct exams assessing reading, writing, and speaking, listening, and communication (SLC) skills. The course includes revision sections and exam-style questions, with AI-powered mock exams facilitating practice for long-response questions. The reading and writing exams are typically scheduled consecutively within a two-hour slot, while the SLC exam is held on a separate day. Success in all three components is necessary to attain the functional skills qualification, and all exams are proctored online from home.
Conclusion
In conclusion, functional skills provide a flexible and efficient avenue for adults seeking educational advancement, offering a viable alternative to the traditional GCSE route. Pass Functional Skills, with its accessible courses and exams, stands out as a convenient and expedited solution for individuals navigating the complexities of adult life while pursuing further education.
QTS Literacy Tutor Team
We help thousands of students each year with revision, courses and online exams.