Functional skills
Functional skills qualifications for young people and adults are the practical skills in English, mathematics and information and communication technology (ICT), which students need to deal confidently, effectively and independently with everyday life. From September 2008 they will be taught in school as part of the Key Stage 3 secondary curriculum, and will be available from all other educational providers from 2010. They will be part of all learning routes (including GCSEs, Diplomas, foundation learning tier and apprenticeships), and we expect most young people to achieve Level 2 functional skills in English and maths, and possibly ICT, by the age of 16.
An information leaflet, 'Functional Skills: Essential for Life, Learning and Work', sets out in a non-technical way the purpose of functional skills and progress in developing them. The leaflet responds to queries from partners and stakeholders for more information and provides answers to basic questions about what functional skills are and why these qualifications are being introduced.
Also included are examples of how learners apply these
skills in real-life situations, as well as links to websites for further
information.
Last updated: 03 September 2008
