Essential Skills

What are essential skills in further education?

They refer to core abilities in English, math, and information and communication technology (ICT) that provide critical foundations for workplace success, career progression, and further learning. UK FE colleges embed essential skills training and testing into many vocational programs.

What essential skills programs are funded publicly?

The UK government provides full funding for eligible students aged 19+ to gain qualifications in English, math, and ICT up to Level 2. Those unemployed can participate for free. Employed individuals may also access programs funded through workplace apprenticeships and training initiatives.

Why develop essential skills via FE?

Further education provides a hands-on way for adult learners to build up their numeric, literacy, and digital abilities. Smaller class sizes, flexible pacing, and specialist tutors allow customized support. Applying skills directly to a vocational context like construction, business, or healthcare can reinforce their value as well.

How are essential skills assessed?

FE colleges administer standardised assessments that test specific competencies related to reading, writing, math, and digital skills. Passing these Functional Skills qualifications at different levels certifies one’s abilities to potential employers. The exams can be taken multiple times to improve one’s rating.

Do essential skills affect access to further FE?

Yes, having English and math qualifications at certain rated levels enables access to many career-related FE courses. For advanced courses like Higher National Diplomas, minimum functional skills levels are often required simply to enroll. Continuing to improve them forms a key part of student success strategies.