English and Maths still ighly valuable for UK Employers
Functional Skills resources creators who are passionate about using real life scenarios to help learners have reported employers still highly value vital skills in English…
Functional skills are fundamental English, maths and information communication technology (ICT) qualifications taught in UK colleges and schools focused on developing practical, transferable competencies for education, work and life.
These are foundation level courses providing baseline maths, language and digital literacy progressing up to GCSE-equivalent Level 2 standard. They build confidence in struggling learners, those with special educational needs, individuals needing to fill CV gaps for employment or swap careers by refreshing core skills.
With UK employers of all sectors and sizes prioritising communication, budget management and digital usage, functional training builds students’ confidence and workplace readiness in these essential activities underpinning roles economy-wide.
Developing functional abilities also strengthens social independence, financial and health literacy, ability to pursue hobbies and interests, supporting well-rounded life skills.
Available from pre-entry up to Level 2, functional syllabuses blend theoretical and applied content. Maths develops numerical understanding, graphs/charts and problem analysis. English emphasizes reading, writing, speaking and listening comprehension. ICT covers using devices, internet, email, spreadsheets and more.
Assessments blend written exams and practical assignments demonstrating real-world application of skills learned to meet rising workplace digitalization.
Functional Skills resources creators who are passionate about using real life scenarios to help learners have reported employers still highly value vital skills in English…
Welcome to FE Soundbite Edition 794: 26th April 2025 | Disconnected: The AI Skills Demand vs. Digital Poverty Divide. Whilst Coursera has seen an 866%…
Apprenticeships are a cornerstone of the UK’s skills development system, equipping individuals with the practical knowledge and experience they need to thrive in the workplace.…
The apprenticeship landscape has seen significant policy shifts in recent months, with changes aimed at reducing bureaucracy and increasing flexibility. Policymakers have long faced calls…
Welcome to FE Soundbite Edition 784: 15th February 2025 | NAW25: Is avoiding English and Maths in Apprenticeships a good idea?| FE Soundbite 784 This…
The government has announced a significant shake-up to apprenticeship requirements, confirming that English and maths Functional Skills exit requirements will be removed for adult apprentices…
Up to 10,000 more apprentices will be able to qualify per year as the government cuts red tape to boost economic growth by giving employers…
New report by AELP (AELP Mini Commission 1, Functional Skills Qualifications FSQS) shows that only 1 in 4 apprenticeship vacancies are now open to those…
We have been told that the Department for Education/Skills England are in listening mode, so now is the time for Awarding Organisations/EPAOs, providers, employers and…
Alex, discusses the critical role of the skills and employability sector in the UK economy. He advocates for increased funding and policy changes to support…
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