Functional Skills Qualifications

Functional Skills qualifications provide essential, practical skills in English and Maths from Entry Level 1 to Level 2, with flexible assessment and no formal age or pre-entry requirements.

Learners sitting a Functional Skills assessment at London Paragon College

About the qualification

Functional Skills are nationally recognised qualifications in English, Maths and Digital Skills. They feature flexible online or paper assessment, remote invigilation options, and no formal age or pre-entry requirements, enabling learners to progress into employment or further education.

Level 2 is accepted in place of a GCSE grade 4 by most employers, universities and training providers. Taught and examined here in Acton.

Fees

Select a level to view the fee

Level 1 and Level 2

Subject	Fee	Included
English, Level 1 or Level 2	£300	Tuition, examination and one free resit
Maths, Level 1 or Level 2	£300	Tuition, examination and one free resit
English and Maths together	£550	Both subjects, both examinations, one free resit each. A saving of £50
Digital Skills, Level 2	£350	Tuition, examination and one free resit

One free resit included

Every fee includes one free resit of the examination, so there is no additional charge should you need to sit the assessment a second time.

Flexible delivery and assessment

As an NCFE approved centre we set our own timetable and can offer assessment in the format that suits you.

Face to face

Taught and assessed at our centre on Acton High Street.

Hybrid

A combination of classroom sessions and online study.

Online

Remote tuition with online assessment and remote invigilation.

Classes run in the morning, the afternoon and the evening. We arrange training at different times throughout the week according to your schedule.

London Paragon College is an NCFE approved centre. Your qualification is awarded by NCFE.

Wish to pursue further and higher education?

Level 2 English and Maths are the standard entry requirement for higher education, nursing and health programmes, apprenticeships and professional training. Many of our learners enrol with us for precisely this purpose.

We advise on the level of qualification your intended course requires
English and Maths studied together are offered at a reduced combined fee
We work with colleges, universities and agents to identify a suitable provider
We provide guidance on the Student Finance application process

Further and Higher Education

London Paragon College information leaflet on funded higher education courses

Where Level 2 can take you

With Level 2 English and Maths you can apply for funded programmes in Business Management, Health and Social Care, Nursing and a wide range of other subjects.

West London College is approximately a twenty minute drive from our centre, and we work with a number of other providers across London.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Level 2 equivalent to a GCSE?

Functional Skills Level 2 is not a GCSE, but it is widely accepted in place of a GCSE grade 4 in English or Maths by employers, universities, apprenticeship providers and professional bodies. We recommend confirming with the organisation requesting the qualification.

How long does the course take?

This depends on your starting level and how frequently you attend. We will provide a realistic timescale when you enrol.

Is the examination fee included?

Yes. The fee covers tuition, the examination and one free resit.

Can I study English and Maths at the same time?

Yes, and the combined fee is £550 rather than £600.

Are there any entry requirements?

Functional Skills qualifications carry no formal age or pre-entry requirements.