We offer a range of part-time Functional Skills English courses, including GCSE English for learners who are already working at Level 2 or have a GCSE grade D-G.
All learners need to attend an interview and complete an initial assessment before confirmation of enrolment on a course.
For more information about our English courses email:
Please note our courses are subject to change.
The following English courses are starting in September 2026.
Are you learning English as a second or additional language? Our ESOL courses may be for you.
GCSE English
Entry Level 3 Functional Skills English
Level 1 Functional Skills English
Level 2 Functional Skills English
Pathway to Functional Skills English
English for Academic Purposes (Grammar) for Teaching Assistant & Early Years
English Grammar for Progression to Level 2 Study
If you do not meet our funding criteria, you may be subject to a fee. Please enquire about our fees.
GCSE English
This course will help you develop your skills in reading, writing, and spoken communication. It supports progression into employment, training or higher education and prepares learners for GCSE English Language.
What does the course cover?
Critical reading of literary and non-fiction texts from the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries, alongside creative and transactional writing. Learners also develop spoken language and listening skills to communicate effectively in different contexts.
How will I be assessed?
External examinations taken in May/June, consisting of two written papers, plus a spoken language assessment completed in class.
Will I get a qualification?
Pearson Edexcel GCSE English Language (subject to exam results).
Course duration
30 weeks (1 academic year), 5 hours per week.
Entry requirements
Completion of initial assessment required. English skills at Level 2 or above. Full attendance and exam availability required.
What can I do next?
Progress to A Level English, further education at college or university, or employment.
Course fees
Free to eligible learners. Please enquire at Reception.
Entry Level 3 Functional Skills English
This course develops basic reading, writing, speaking and listening skills needed for everyday communication, work and further study.
What does the course cover?
Reading understanding and interpreting texts such as emails and articles; writing for different purposes with correct spelling and grammar; speaking, listening and contributing to discussions.
How will I be assessed?
Three assessments covering reading, writing, and speaking and listening, including controlled assessments and written tasks. Mock exams are available.
Will I get a qualification?
Pearson Edexcel Functional Skills English Entry Level 3 qualification.
Course duration
18 weeks, 1 day per week (5 hours).
Entry requirements
Initial assessment required. English skills at Entry 3. Full attendance and independent study expected.
What can I do next?
Progress to Level 1 Functional Skills English or further education and employment.
Course fees
Free to eligible learners. Please enquire at Reception.
Level 1 Functional Skills English
This course builds practical English skills for work, study and everyday life, including reading, writing and communication in real-world contexts.
What does the course cover?
Reading and interpreting texts, writing clearly and accurately, communicating in discussions, adapting language for purpose and audience, and improving grammar, punctuation and spelling.
How will I be assessed?
External examinations for reading and writing, plus internally assessed speaking and listening tasks. Mock exams are provided.
Will I get a qualification?
Pearson Edexcel Functional Skills English Level 1 qualification.
Course duration
18 weeks, 1 day per week (5 hours).
Entry requirements
Initial assessment required. English skills at Level 1. Full attendance and independent study required.
What can I do next?
Progress to Level 2 Functional Skills English, further study or employment.
Course fees
Free to eligible learners. Please enquire at Reception.
Level 2 Functional Skills English
This course develops advanced English skills for work, education and everyday communication, supporting progression into higher study or employment.
What does the course cover?
Reading a range of texts, writing for different audiences and purposes, effective communication in discussions, adapting language and tone, and accurate use of grammar, punctuation and spelling.
How will I be assessed?
External exams for reading and writing, plus internally assessed speaking and listening under controlled conditions. Mock exams are included.
Will I get a qualification?
Pearson Edexcel Functional Skills English Level 2 qualification.
Course duration
18 weeks, 1 day per week (5 hours).
Entry requirements
Initial assessment required. English skills at or working towards Level 2. Full attendance required.
What can I do next?
Progress to higher education, vocational courses, apprenticeships or employment.
Course fees
Free to eligible learners. Please enquire at Reception.
Pathway to Functional Skills English
English for Academic Purposes (Grammar) for Teaching Assistant & Early Years
Designed for aspiring or current Teaching Assistants and Early Years practitioners, this course develops the grammar and written communication skills needed in education settings. Learners will improve their accuracy when producing professional documents, reports and written assignments, supporting progression into Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications and the workplace.
English Grammar for Progression to Level 2 Study
Strengthen your understanding of English grammar to support success at Level 2. Learners will improve their knowledge of sentence structure, punctuation, spelling and language conventions, developing the confidence and accuracy needed for further study and written assessments.
Progression Pathway
