What is Functional Skills Level 1

Functional Skills Level 1 is a qualification demonstrating the ability to apply a basic understanding of maths and English in real-life situations. What is level 1 functional skills equivalent to? Functional Skills level 1 is equivalent to a grade D or E at GCSE, but are a stepping stone for students to move onto the functional skills level 2.

Functional Skills is a set of qualifications ranging from entry level 1 to level 2 designed to allow learners to apply their knowledge of maths and English in everyday scenarios, making it highly valued by employers and providing essential life skills.

At Pass Functional Skills, all our qualifications are Ofqual approved, meaning they all follow the same government-set curriculum, irrespective of the exam board, and are accepted by any training providers requesting this qualification. All our exams are done online from the comfort of your own home; all you need is a computer or laptop with a webcam and a strong internet connection, and our invigilators will guide you through the rest. We want to make our exams as accessible as possible, and so we offer them all year round, weekdays and weekends, meaning you can sit your exam at whatever time suits you.


Functional Skills English Level 1

Reading: This is a 60-minute paper that requires you to complete short answer questions on a number of texts provided in the exam. You will need to demonstrate you can identify the key points within texts and recognise vocabulary associated with specific types and purposes of texts.

Writing: This is a 60-minute paper requiring you to demonstrate your writing skills in different contexts and texts with specific purposes determined by the scenario in the paper. You will need to communicate your opinions clearly, with a structure relevant to the task and with accurate spelling and grammar.

Speaking listening and communication: This is a group exam where you will discuss a pre-determined topic with other learners. It lasts approximately 60 minutes and requires you to extract relevant information from key points discussed, ask and respond effectively to questions and communicate opinions clearly. Remember this is an exam focusing on your communication skills, not your level of knowledge on the chosen topic.