Functional Skills English Level 1

Course Code

N/A

Course Duration

14 weeks (Tuesdays & Wednesdays, 9:30am – 11:30am)

Location

Cradley Heath Skills Campus

Start Date

3 February, 2026
Female adult students talking across table

Build the strong English skills you need for work, study and everyday life with this 14-week Functional Skills English Level 1 course, delivered at Cradley Heath Skills Campus.
This course helps you develop confident reading, writing, speaking and listening skills that are practical, relevant and essential for modern life. You’ll learn how to understand a range of everyday and workplace texts, write clear paragraphs with correct spelling and punctuation, and communicate effectively in discussions and conversations. Whether you want to return to education, apply for work, or support your family, this course gives you the foundation you need to move forward.
As part of the number one college group for student achievement in the West Midlands, you’ll study in a friendly and welcoming adult learning environment that supports you to succeed at your own pace.

Who is this course for?

This course is ideal for adults aged 19+ who want to

  • Improve their English skills for work or everyday communication
  • Strengthen their reading and writing accuracy
  • Build confidence taking part in discussions and group activities
  • Prepare for Functional Skills Level 2
  • Gain a recognised qualification accepted by employers and training providers

No previous qualifications are required, though Entry Level 3 is helpful.

  • You must be aged 19+
  • No previous qualifications are required, though Entry Level 3 is helpful.

Across 14 weekly sessions, you’ll build strong and practical English skills, including:

  • Reading a range of everyday and workplace texts such as emails, articles, forms and written instructions
  • Writing structured paragraphs using correct punctuation, grammar and spelling
  • Planning, drafting, editing and improving written work for clarity and accuracy
  • Speaking and listening confidently in group discussions or workplace-style conversations
  • Understanding information, meaning and viewpoints in written and spoken English

Learning is delivered through real-life examples and practical tasks that help you apply your skills immediately.

As a learner at Cradley Heath Skills Campus, you’ll benefit from:

  • A modern, purpose-built adult learning centre designed to build confidence and independence
  • Supportive tutors who understand the needs of adult learners returning to education
  • Being part of The Sandwell Colleges — the number one college group for student achievement in the West Midlands
  • A positive adult learning community where encouragement and progress go hand in hand

You’ll attend two sessions each week at Cradley Heath Skills Campus. Assessment is based on ongoing tasks and real-life English activities rather than traditional exams. Your tutor will provide supportive, detailed feedback to build your confidence and prepare you for Level 2.

After successfully completing this course, you can progress to:

  • Functional Skills English Level 2
  • English for Jobseekers
  • Further adult education, employability training or vocational courses

You’ll also feel more confident communicating at work, supporting family needs, participating in your community and preparing for new opportunities.

Course Details

Qualification

Level 1

Exam Board

N/A

Study Mode

Part Time

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Apply for this course or find out more

Located in West Bromwich, Sandwell College boasts best in class facilities and exceptional teaching standards.
Alongside delivering outstanding pass rates, the College is proud to offer unrivalled mental health services and welfare support, ensuring that every student has access to the advice and guidance they need.

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