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Functional Skills: what they are

Functional Skills are practical skills in English, maths and information and communications technology (ICT).

They are a new set of qualifications, launching in 2010. They will be available for all learners aged 14 and above (although it will be possible to take them at a younger age too).

Functional Skills are not just about knowledge in English, maths and ICT. They are also about knowing when and how to use the knowledge in real life situations.

Where and how you can take them

Functional Skills will involve taking separate tests which will give you a qualification if you pass them. They will also count towards other qualifications, including Diplomas and Apprenticeships.

They will be widely available in England in schools, colleges, training providers and the workplace.

Taking Functional Skills as part of other qualifications

From September 2008, Functional Skills are being made part of the new secondary curriculum. This means they will be learned by all young people.

Functional Skills will be an integral part of:

• Apprenticeships
• Diplomas
• GCSEs
• The Foundation Learning Tier

• Apprenticeships

• Diplomas for 14 to 19 year olds

• GCSEs

• Find out more about the Foundation Learning Tier Opens new window

Taking Functional Skills on their own

From 2010, you will also be able to take Functional Skills qualifications on their own.

They are due to replace Skills for Life qualifications and the three main Key Skills qualifications. However, Key Skills and Skills for Life qualifications will still be available for new learners to start until at least August 2010.

• Skills for Life qualifications

• Key Skills qualifications

Choosing the right level of qualification

Functional Skills are currently being piloted in a three-year scheme. During this time, the qualifications are being offered on their own at Entry Level, Level 1 and Level 2 on the National Qualifications Framework.

The framework shows how different types of qualifications compare, in terms of the demands they place on learners.

• Qualifications: what the different levels mean

How you will be assessed

You will be assessed mainly by completing a set of practical tasks within a given time limit.

The awarding bodies that are developing Functional Skills are also looking at new ways to assess learners, such as electronic and online methods.

More useful links

• 14 to 19: your life, your options

• Adult learning

• Find out more about Functional Skills Opens new window