
Functional Skills English Level 1

Am I Eligible?
- Aged 19 or older
- Living in South Yorkshire
- Right to live and work in the UK
- Looking to gain an accredited qualification
Functional Skills English Level 1 is a nationally recognised qualification that demonstrates your ability to communicate effectively in reading, writing, speaking and listening. Accepted by employers, colleges, apprenticeship providers and universities across the UK as a recognised English qualification.
This practical qualification focuses on the real English skills you need in everyday life and the workplace — from writing professional emails and reading workplace documents to communicating confidently in meetings and discussions. Level 1 is equivalent to a GCSE grade D/E (grade 2-3) and is the ideal stepping stone towards Level 2, which is equivalent to a grade C GCSE.
At SPS Sheffield we offer flexible classroom and online delivery options so you can study in a way that fits around your work and personal commitments.
What Will I Gain?
- A nationally recognised Functional Skills English Level 1 qualification
- Confidence in reading, writing, speaking and listening for the workplace
- Ability to write clearly and accurately for a range of purposes and audiences
- Strong reading comprehension skills for workplace documents and everyday texts
- Effective communication skills for professional and personal situations
- A stepping stone to Functional Skills English Level 2 (GCSE equivalent)
- Improved employability and eligibility for apprenticeships and further study
Funded by and quality standards
This course is fully funded for eligible South Yorkshire residents by the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority and Sheffield City Council as part of the government Skills for Life campaign. SPS Sheffield holds the Matrix Standard for information advice and guidance and is an approved FACES member organisation.

What Will I Gain?
Accreditation & Skills
- Initial assessment to confirm the right level for you
- Expert tutor-led sessions throughout the course
- All course materials and learning resources
- Practice assessments and mock exams
- Speaking and Listening assessment with your tutor
- Exam registration and fees (for eligible learners)
- Certificate on successful completion
- Support to progress to Level 2 on completion
Programme Details
- Duration
- 8 Weeks
- Level
- Level 1
- Location
- South Yorkshire
- Delivery
- Classroom / In-Person
Funding Details
Accredited Learning Provider
SPS delivers advice, guidance and high-quality accredited learning to adult students across South Yorkshire.

Learning Support
Additional support is available for learners with disabilities, learning difficulties, or additional access requirements.
Need Help with Enrolment?
Speak directly with our admissions advisors to confirm your eligibility and discuss class schedules.
Ready to Join?
Fill in the form to register your interest for Functional Skills English Level 1. Our admissions officers will be in touch within one business day to guide you through verification of eligibility and enrolling in the next available cohort.
