What are Functional Skills and why do you have to take them?

As part of our apprenticeship programmes, most apprentices need to achieve qualifications in English and maths, these are known as ‘Functional Skills’.

There are two levels. Level 1 and Level 2. The Achievement of Level 2 Functional Skills is a Government requirement for anyone undertaking an apprenticeship at Level 3 or above who does not have GCSE English and maths at Grade C/4 or above (or equivalent) on entry to their apprenticeship programme.

Functional Skills are there to help you gain essential literacy and numeracy skills that can be applied in everyday life and work, as well as supporting you grow in confidence.

Learning toward your Functional Skills will take place in your monthly sessions with your learning consultants as well as through self-directed learning on a dedicated maths and English learning platform. You can also access workshop sessions through our Functional Skills Academy, but if you need a bit more support, our Functional Skills Academy tutors can provide this to help you pass whatever level you are at.

With are blended learning approach, we aim to get you through the Functional Skills within the first 6 months of your apprenticeship.

What our apprentices are saying

<autoplay speed=4></autoplay>“This was the first maths lesson in my life that I liked, so thank you so much! Maths has always been a big problem for me and I will continue to practice so I don't forget what I have learned.”

— Maria Luisa Scalabroni - Level 3 Hospitality Supervisor Apprentice - The Lensbury Resort
“I formed a great relationship with them (Learner Consultant), and they became such a role model for me. They were so involved in my development and knew me from a personal level. I was being coached throughout, which really helped my confidence and was the most valuable thing.

— Emma Mackey- Level 3 - Learning and Development Apprentice - Red Carnation Hotels

English

A solid foundation in functional English is required across the subject areas of speaking and hearing, reading, and writing during your apprenticeship, we will support you every step of the way.

You will learn to create clear and concise articles and letters, and you will apply what you learn to real-world writing situations.

By studying Functional Skills English, you will improve your skills, abilities and confidence that are vital to succeed in life and work.

You will learn in group or individually with your friendly, knowledgeable and supportive tutors and learning consultants.

Maths

A Functional Skills maths qualification provides you with the foundation you need to transition into the workforce or further study, as well as the skills necessary for everyday life.

You will demonstrate an extensive understanding of the fundamental and foundational maths skills for each level, and apply mathematical reasoning to solve simple problems in familiar situations.

You will learn in group or individually with your friendly, knowledgeable and supportive tutors and learning consultants.

Are you worried about your taking Functional Skills or not sure if you need to take them?

Please don’t be. We are here to support you.

You can book a call or email with your learning consultant or talk to our team to see how we can help you sit your exams or see if you are exempt.

Contact us.

Call us on: 0333 577 2557
email: info@umbrellatraining.co.uk

FAQs

Functional Skills Maths and English qualifications are equivalent to GCSE and are aimed at adults, with a focus on the skills we need for work.
Level 1 GCSE D-G or level 1-3
Level 2 GCSE A*- C or level 4-9
Entry requirements are different depending on the employer and the role, but generally, Level 2 apprenticeships don't require any formal qualifications.
If you don't already have GCSEs in English and maths, you will need to take Functional Skills as part of the apprenticeship, which is an alternative to GCSEs.
If you have English and Maths qualifications that were gained overseas which you believe are the equivalent to GCSE English and Maths at grade C/4 or above (or accepted equivalent), you should provide your certificates to our admissions department who will refer them to Ecctis in order to identify their UK equivalent.
If your overseas qualifications are not deemed to be at the required level, you will be required to complete Level 2 English and/or Maths functional skills.
The Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) funds the achievement of Level 2 English and Maths qualifications.
This funding is paid directly to your training provider (Umbrella Training) to cover the cost of your English and Maths initial assessment and diagnostic assessment, delivery costs and examination fees.
Resits/missed exams are covered up to two attempts. After this additional cost may go to your employer.