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Functional skills

Teacher and pupils at the computer

Introduction to functional skills

Functional skills are practical skills in English, information and communication technology (ICT) and mathematics. They allow individuals to work confidently, effectively and independently in life.

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From pilot to roll out

In September 2007 we began a three-year Functional skills pilot to ensure functional skills are relevant and useful to all learners. You might still able to join the pilot.

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students in classroom

Developing functional skills

Read about the important role they play in all of the qualification routes for 14-19 year olds.

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News and announcements

New functional skills qualifications accreditation update

15 July 2010

New functional skills qualifications accreditation update

Functional skills transition arrangements update

21 April 2010

First published February 2010

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