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Standard English and Maths

New Functional Skills qualification launched to support career development

16 Feb 2022 | College

English and Maths skills are essential today not only to progress onto higher education but also to ensure your suitability on the job market.

These days its common practice for many employers to ask for Maths and English as standard up to GCSE Grade 4 or above or the equivalent of a Pass grade at Level 2 Functional Skills.

For those who need to top up or develop their skills we have designed a free, practical and accessible Level 2 Functional Skills course. We understand that many applicants may be working full or part time when embarking on the course so we have developed a short, flexible 12-week timetable to fit around existing commitments. This means students can gain these essential qualifications whilst continuing to work or manage obligations at home.

The course will include face-to face teaching on campus and run every week on Tuesdays and Thursdays. However, to provide flexibility there will be two timeslots. Lasting for 3 hours, the first will be in the afternoon from 2pm to 5pm and the second in the evening from 5.30pm till 8.30pm.

The course is designed to give students a good understanding of English and Maths, which is vital for any degree course in addition to enhancing career prospects with a relevant and desirable qualification. The Level 2 Functional Skills will equip students for a career in almost any sector, providing a stepping stone to more choice and greater employment opportunities.

The Functional Skills English explores reading, writing, speaking and the listening elements of language to develop a greater understanding of communication. The Maths equivalent is designed to help students develop a knowledge of problem-solving, reasoning, functional elements of Mathematics and the capability of applying maths in context.

Anyone wishing to secure a place will need to attend an informal interview with a member of the English/Maths team and undertake an initial assessment to gauge any existing skills. The course is free for anyone who has not yet achieved Grade 4 or Level 2 equivalent of Functional Skills previously.

Head of English and Maths at Bishop Burton, Victoria Lucas commented:

"This new qualification is a great addition to our curriculum. Functional Skills are essential these days for anyone wanting to progress their career. Whether you’re wanting to get back on the career ladder, top-up your skills for a promotion or enter a new sector, this qualification will stand you in good stead. We are proud to accommodate and support those studying whilst working with our flexible session times to ensure the provision is inclusive and available and accessible to all.”

Applications are now open to start in March 2022. This free, short course is available for enrolment now (subject to numbers) and commences 1st March, running for 12 weeks until 24th June.

To find out more or apply click here.

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