ENGLISH & MATHS
ABOUT
Strong English and maths skills open doors to better job opportunities, higher education, and everyday confidence. Employers and universities often require them, and they’re essential for managing finances, problem-solving, and effective communication. Whether you’re planning your future career, handling daily tasks, or aiming for personal growth, mastering these skills boosts your potential and sets you up for success. Invest in your future—build your English and maths skills today!
Functional Skills qualifications provide learners with the essential, real-world English and maths skills needed to thrive in work, study and everyday life. As a key stepping-stone qualifications for career progression, apprenticeships, and university pathways, Functional Skills offer a flexible and accessible alternative to GCSEs. At Havering Adult College you can begin your journey with Entry Level 3 (Maths only) and continue through Level 1 and Level 2.
No matter what your past educational experiences, or your current level or ability may be, our teachers are supportive, enthusiastic and are engaged in helping you achieve your personal and professional goals for the present and your future.
COURSES
Functional Skills English
- Reading – Understanding and interpreting different types of texts, such as letters, emails, reports, and instructions.
- Writing – Structuring clear, well-punctuated writing for formal and informal purposes, including emails, reports, and applications.
- Speaking, Listening & Communication – Developing effective verbal communication skills through discussions, presentations, and active listening.
Functional Skills Maths
- Using Numbers – Basic calculations, fractions, decimals, percentages, and ratios.
- Understanding Measures, Shape & Space – Units of measurement, area, perimeter, volume, and working with shapes.
- Handling Data – Reading charts, graphs, and tables, as well as interpreting statistics and probability.
- Problem-Solving – Applying maths skills to real-life situations, such as budgeting, bills, and measurements in work and home life.
Why is Functional Skills English and Maths Useful:
- Recognised by employers and further education providers.
- Helps with everyday tasks like managing money, planning travel, and understanding data.
- A key qualification for career progression, apprenticeships, and university courses.
Not ready to jump straight in? Dip your toe in with our Preparation courses.
- A FREE course designed to help adults build confidence and prepare for a Functional Skills qualification.
- Fun, engaging course is perfect if you’re looking to refresh your skills in a relaxed setting.
- Practical activities, work out your current level, and get a clear picture of your next steps.
Preparation for: Functional Skills English
Preparation For: Functional Skills Maths
PROGRESSION ROUTE
Entry Level 3
- Designed for those with little or no prior knowledge of maths or English.
- Focuses on practical, everyday skills such as reading simple texts, writing short sentences, basic calculations, and using money.
- Suitable for beginners or those looking to build confidence.
(Maths Only)
Level 1
- Introduces more structured skills in reading, writing, problem-solving, and numeracy.
- Helps with workplace tasks like writing reports, interpreting timetables, and handling money.
- Often required for apprenticeships and entry-level jobs.
Level 2
- A recognised qualification for employment, apprenticeships, and further education.
- Covers more complex skills such as detailed report writing, data analysis, and advanced problem-solving.
- Often needed for university courses, vocational training, and career progression.
PROGRESSION ROUTE
Entry Level 3
- Designed for those with little or no prior knowledge of maths or English.
- Focuses on practical, everyday skills such as reading simple texts, writing short sentences, basic calculations, and using money.
- Suitable for beginners or those looking to build confidence.
Level 1
- Introduces more structured skills in reading, writing, problem-solving, and numeracy.
- Helps with workplace tasks like writing reports, interpreting timetables, and handling money.
- Often required for apprenticeships and entry-level jobs.
Level 2
- A recognised qualification for employment, apprenticeships, and further education.
- Covers more complex skills such as detailed report writing, data analysis, and advanced problem-solving.
- Often needed for university courses, vocational training, and career progression.
ENROLING ONTO FUNCTIONAL SKILLS COURSES
Your PCI will include a short assessment to find your starting level and areas that need strengthening. To help you prepare for your PCI and develop throughout your course, we have some helpful tips below.