Functional skills tests have become an integral part of the UK educational landscape, providing necessary certifications in English and Mathematics. Employers and educational institutions alike recognise these tests, which provide students with the practical skills required for success in the industry and in everyday life. In this article, Manchester Tutor Company discusses the importance of functional skills tests, its structure, and how Pass Functional Skills may help you accomplish your scholastic and professional goals.
Functional skills are the foundation of practical education, with an emphasis on real-world applications of English and mathematics. Unlike traditional academic certificates, functional skills tests highlight the ability to apply information in real-world circumstances, making them extremely relevant to everyday chores and professional requirements.
There are a number of key benefits to pursuing a functional skills course. One of these is that it increases your employability, as it demonstrates technical proficiency in important areas such as problem solving, communication, and numerical literacy. The showcase of these necessary fundamental skills also improve your chances of moving on to further education. A Level 2 functional skills qualification is often a required component when applying to apprenticeships and university or college courses. Aside from professional and academic endeavours, the skills you gain studying for a level 2 qualification will help you immensely in your daily life from managing finances, to understanding digital communication or contracts that you may encounter.
There are three distinct levels offered by Pass Functional Skills in order to cater the varying levels of competency that can be found.
Entry Level 3 is the most ideal option for novices, focussing on the absolute basic foundational skills just below level 1. Level 1 is comparable to a 2/3 (E/D) grade at GCSEs, building on the basic skills and preparing learners for the more advanced challenges. Level 2 is equivalent to a grade 4 or C at GCSE, and therefore the equivalent to passing the maths or English GCSE. As such, this is the most sought after level and it provides a robust and reputable alternative qualification to GCSEs for employers and further education institutions.
The English exam assesses reading, writing and speaking/listening skills. The reading and writing exams are taken online, each exam typically lasting an hour. The speaking and listening exam is conducted along with other learners also taking the exam and may involve a presentation and group discussion.
The maths exam has both a non-calculator and a calculator section, similar to GCSEs. However, instead of separate papers, they are both within the same exam, with the non-calculator section lasting 30 minutes and the calculator section lasting 90 minutes for a total exam time of 2 hours.
Due to the online nature of these exams, there is a wide range of availability from Monday to Saturday all year round. Therefore, you can choose a time that best suits you and fits around any other commitments or responsibilities you may have. Pass Functional Skills fully understands the need for flexibility for learners with busy schedules.
Functional skills examinations serve as gateways to new prospects and personal development. Whether you are seeking to better your everyday skills, pursue further education, or enhance your employability, Pass Functional Skills is available to assist you at every stage of the journey. Our exam solutions are effective, supportive, and flexible, providing you with the opportunity to uncover your potential and achieve your objectives.