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Date Published: 17/09/2025
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What Are Functional Skills?
Functional Skills are practical qualifications in English and Maths that equip learners with the essential knowledge needed to thrive in work, education and daily life. Unlike traditional academic courses, Functional Skills focus on real-world applications, making them ideal for adults who want to improve their literacy and numeracy in a supportive, accessible environment.
Kent Adult Education offers Functional Skills courses from Entry Level to Level 2, with Level 2 being equivalent to a GCSE pass (Grade 4/C). These courses are free for eligible learners, and available both online and in centres across Kent.
Why Choose Kent Adult Education for Functional Skills?
Kent Adult Education is a trusted provider of adult learning across the county, offering:
- Flexible learning options: Courses are available during mornings, afternoons and evenings with both real-time online and in-person formats.
- Supportive tutors: Experienced educators guide learners through the curriculum with patience and encouragement.
- Accessible entry points: Courses start at various times throughout the year, and learners can join when ready.
- Free courses: Functional Skills courses are fully funded for eligible learners, removing financial barriers to education.
Functional Skills English Courses
Functional Skills English Course Overview
Kent Adult Education's Functional Skills English courses are designed to improve your ability to read, write, speak and listen effectively. These skills are essential for job applications, workplace communication and everyday interactions such as writing emails, reading instructions or participating in meetings.
Courses are available at:
- Entry Level: For learners who need foundational support
- Level 1 and Level 2: For those aiming to gain a qualification equivalent to GCSE English
What You'll Learn on Functional Skills English Courses
Functional Skills English courses focus on:
- Reading: Understanding texts, identifying key information and interpreting meaning
- Writing: Structuring sentences, using correct grammar and punctuation, and writing for different purposes
- Speaking and Listening: Communicating clearly, participating in discussions, and presenting ideas confidently
Courses include engaging exercises and personalised feedback, helping learners build confidence and apply their skills in real-life scenarios.
Course Locations and Formats
Courses are delivered:
- Online: Live sessions with tutors, ideal for learners who prefer remote study
- In-centre: Available at locations such as Ashford, Dartford, Gravesend, Folkestone and Tunbridge Wells
Functional Skills Maths Courses
Functional Skills Maths Course Overview
Kent Adult Education's Functional Skills Maths courses help learners develop the numeracy skills needed for work, study and everyday life. Whether you're budgeting, measuring or interpreting data, these courses provide the practical knowledge to do so with confidence.
Courses are available at:
- Entry Level: For those starting with basic numeracy.
- Level 1 and Level 2: For learners aiming to achieve a qualification equivalent to GCSE Maths.
What You'll Learn on Functional Skills Maths Courses
Functional Skills Maths courses cover:
- Numbers and calculations: Addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions and decimals.
- Measures and shapes: Understanding units, geometry and spatial awareness.
- Data handling: Reading charts, graphs and interpreting statistics.
- Problem-solving: Applying maths to real-life scenarios like shopping, travel and budgeting.
These courses are designed to build confidence and competence, helping learners tackle everyday challenges and improve career prospects.
Course Locations and Formats
Courses are delivered:
- Online: Live, interactive sessions with your tutor and other students.
- In-centre: Available at Canterbury, Gravesend, Margate, Sittingbourne and other locations across Kent.
Progression Pathways
Functional skills qualifications open doors to further education and employment. After completing a Level 2 course, learners may choose to:
- Apply for college or university courses
- Pursue apprenticeships or vocational training
- Enrol in GCSE English or Maths courses
- Improve job applications and career prospects
