Functional Skills

As part of your apprenticeship, you will be required to hold a qualification in English and Maths at a specific level.

Level 2 Apprenticeships:

The apprentice must study towards and achieve English and maths qualifications of at least level 1 (functional skills level 1 or GCSE grade E or 2). Once level 1 (functional skills level 1 or GCSE grade E or 2) is secured, apprentices must work towards level 2 English and / or maths (functional skills level 2 or GCSE) where there is time to make meaningful progress (a minimum of three months remaining prior to gateway).

In recognition that a level 2 English and maths is at least two levels above the level of prior attainment, they are not New for 1 August 2023 New for Version 1 42 We have updated the text to clarify that those undertaking a level 3 or higher apprenticeship must achieve a level 2 in both English and maths. 22 required to be assessed at level 2 unless the provider is satisfied they are ready for assessment (for example from mock / practice attempts).

Where the apprentice already holds a Level 1 they must start, continue to study and take the assessments for a level 2 English and / or maths (functional skills level 2 or GCSE). This requirement must be fulfilled before the apprentice takes the end-point assessment. The apprentice should be assessed at level 2 for all three units of the English functional skills and the assessment for maths.

Level 3 Apprenticeships:

Apprentices without Level 2 (or equivalent) in English and maths must ensure they achieve Level 2 prior to taking the end-point assessment. If the apprentice does not already hold a Level 2 they must commence tuition at the English and maths level immediately above the level at which they have been assessed at the start of their apprenticeship, in instances where this is lower than the exit requirements.

Functional Skills English

This Qualification includes 3 components:

1.Speaking, listening and communication

This component is internally assessed, and quality assured by the centre and externally moderated by Highfield.

Learners must complete 2 assessed tasks:

Presentation and Q&A
Discussion

Tutors/assessors record observational evidence of the assessment on the Highfield Functional Skills Qualification in English at Level 2: Speaking, Listening and Communication Assessment Record.

2.Reading

Learners must complete 1 written examination that is set, marked, and moderated by Highfield.

3.Writing

Learners must complete 1 written examination that is set, marked, and moderated by Highfield.

The reading and writing examinations will be available on demand in either on screen or paper-based formats.

Functional Skills Maths

This qualification consists of 2 mandatory components. Learners must complete both the Non-Calculator and Calculator written examinations that are set, marked, and moderated by Highfield. The assessments will test a learner’s representing, analysing, and interpreting skills using numbers, geometry, and statistics in realistic contexts.

Mathematics examinations are available on demand in either on screen or paper-based format.