Last updated: 15 Dec 2008

Introduction

Functional skills are practical skills in English, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Mathematics, that allow individuals to work confidently, effectively and independently in life.

To ensure that functional skills are readily available to the full range of learners, they are being offered as free-standing qualifications at Entry Level, Level 1 and Level 2 during the three-year functional skills pilot that began in September 2007.

Functional skills will also be constituent qualifications of new Foundation, Higher and Advanced Diplomas.

The assessment approach will be primarily task-based scenario questions with a limited duration, delivered in a controlled environment. The assessments will support problem solving, skills-based approaches.

QCA has developed, with a range of partners, a set of standards for the functional skills pilot qualifications. The standards determine the knowledge and skills proficiency required at each level. The standards are available by following the "Functional skills standards" link to the left of this page.

Achievement and attainment

QCA is currently working with DCSF and DIUS to confirm the performance points that will be attributed to the functional skills qualifications.

Funding for functional skills

In 2007/08, functional skills qualifications are to be funded at the same rate as key skills and it is expected that functional skills will replace existing provision.

For further education funded provision and school sixth forms, the funding for functional skills is included within the agreed 2007/08 allocations. For 16-18 year olds on a full-time programme in either a school or a college, the per pupil entitlement funding will include an element to cover access to key and functional skills. Similarly, functional skills delivered separately, or as part of an apprenticeship, will be funded at the same rate as key skills. Colleges, schools and providers should record functional skills qualifications on their appropriate data returns in the usual manner.

For answers to any general questions you have please use the Functional skills FAQs link on the right of this page.