Many people think they’re “not good at maths” or that their English isn’t strong enough - but that’s simply not true. Every day, you already use English and maths skills: managing money, reading messages, completing forms, helping with homework or communicating at work. Our Functional Skills courses help you build on those everyday abilities, grow your confidence and gain a recognised qualification.
You will learn through live, online teaching sessions and then sit an in-person exam to successfully complete your qualification. Your exam will take place in one of our exam centres located all across England.
It’s not like being back at school
Learning with the WEA is practical, supportive and designed for adults. You’ll develop real-world skills you can use straight away - from working with percentages and measurements to improving your reading, writing and communication skills. Whether you want to feel more confident in daily life or take the next step in your career, our courses are tailored to help you succeed.
Why improve your English and maths?
Good maths and English skills open doors. Many employers ask for GCSEs, and Functional Skills qualifications at Level 2 are equivalent to a GCSE Grade 4 (Grade C). Achieving a Functional Skills qualification can improve your job prospects, support further study and help you feel more confident at work and at home.
We offer courses from Entry Level 3 through to Level 2. You’ll learn in small classes with friendly, experienced tutors who understand that everyone starts at a different place. Your tutor will support you in preparing for the relevant assessments as part of your course, helping you feel fully prepared and confident.
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If you are aged over 19 and ordinarily resident in England then you are likely to receive full funding. If you do not qualify, we will let you know as part of the application process. You can cancel at any time. Please contact us if you would like to check your eligibility. Please note that due to funding restrictions we are unable to offer places on these courses to learners in Tees Valley. Learners in Greater Manchester must be unemployed in order to be eligible for a place.
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A BKSB (Basic Keys Skill Builder) assessment is an online assessment that you'll take before you start your course. It will assess your current level of English or maths, and allow us to tailor your learning experience so that your course is right for you. It’s really important that you complete the assessment on your own, without help or using any additional tools.
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Learning with the WEA isn't like being back at school. You'll learn at your own pace in a supportive and friendly atmosphere. We believe in keeping group sizes down too, making it easier for our learners to speak up, get to know their group and get actively involved in learning.
You can learn the inspiring stories of some of our learners here.
