Functional Skills - English

What are Functional Skills?

“… core elements of English, Maths and ICT that provide an individual with the essential knowledge, skills and understanding that will enable them to operate confidently, effectively and independently in life and at work”. (DCSF)

Standalone Functional Skills

It is expected that Functional Skills will eventually replace the Key Skills qualifications in communication, application of number and ICT at Levels 1 and 2 and the Basic Skills (Skills for Life) qualifications in Literacy, Numeracy and ICT. From 2010 Functional Skills will become a compulsory part of GCSEs. Sixth Form students who have not got A*-C in Maths or English are required to attend Functional Skills training.

OCR’s Level 1 and 2 Functional English Assessment

Two components:

Reading and Writing

• OCR set and marked
• Comprising scenario based questions
• Duration 75 minutes
• Controlled, supervised conditions

Speaking and Listening

• Centre assessed
• OCR moderated
• L1 - short discussion
• L2 - short discussion and short presentation

Level 1 and 2 Assessment Opportunities

• November
• January
• March
• May
• June