Functional Skills UK Introduces ‘Living and Working in the UK’ Qualification with ESOL Department
At Functional Skills UK, we are excited to introduce the Living and Working in the UK qualification, delivered in partnership with our ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) department. This Gateway qualification provides learners with essential knowledge about life in the UK, integrating seamlessly with our ESOL curriculum to support both language development and cultural understanding.
What is the ‘Living and Working in the UK’ Qualification?
This qualification, offered at Entry Level 1 through to Level 1, is designed to help learners build a foundational understanding of the UK’s society, laws, and daily life. It is particularly beneficial for individuals who are new to the country, providing them with the necessary tools to navigate and integrate effectively into their local communities and workplaces.
Key Topics Covered
The course covers a range of important topics that support learners in developing their knowledge and confidence in various aspects of UK life, including:
- Community Engagement: Understanding local services, community organisations, and ways to participate in civic life.
- Employment & Workplace Rights: Learning about job searching, workplace expectations, and employment rights in the UK.
- Political & Legal Systems: Gaining insight into voting rights, government structures, and how UK laws affect everyday life.
- Education & the School System: Helping parents and individuals understand the UK’s education system, from nursery to higher education.
- Health & Well-being: Accessing NHS services, understanding public health information, and maintaining well-being in the UK.
- Cultural Awareness & Integration: Developing an understanding of British customs, traditions, and etiquette to support social and workplace interactions.
How This Qualification Integrates with ESOL
The Living and Working in the UK qualification perfectly complements our ESOL courses, as it allows learners to apply their developing English language skills in real-life contexts. By learning about UK systems and structures while improving their English, learners gain practical skills that help them feel more confident in their day-to-day lives. This integration ensures that language learning is not only about vocabulary and grammar but also about meaningful engagement with the society they live in.
Benefits of the Qualification
According to Gateway Qualifications, some of the key benefits of Living and Working in the UK include:
- Supports learners’ independence by equipping them with the knowledge they need to engage with their community and services.
- Improves employability by helping individuals understand workplace expectations and employment rights.
- Encourages active citizenship by educating learners on the UK’s political system and their role within it.
- Enhances confidence and communication skills through real-world language application in ESOL lessons.
- Provides a stepping stone to further education for learners who wish to progress in their studies or training.
Success in Brighton & Hove
We have already seen great success with our ESOL community in Brighton & Hove, where this qualification has helped learners feel more connected and empowered. Many learners have shared how the course has given them a better understanding of UK life, making them more confident when accessing services, supporting their children’s education, and even participating in local events and voting for the first time.
Valeria Rafla, our ESOL Project Lead, shares her perspective:
“The ‘Living and Working in the UK’ qualification has been transformative for our learners, especially new arrivals. It has given them the tools to navigate everyday challenges, access essential services, and feel a greater sense of belonging in their communities. Seeing our learners gain confidence and independence through this course has been incredibly rewarding.”
Adding Value to Our Curriculum
At Functional Skills UK, we are committed to offering qualifications that enhance personal development and support learners in achieving their goals. The Living and Working in the UK qualification is a perfect addition to our curriculum, providing learners with not just language skills but also the knowledge and confidence to build a successful life in the UK.
For more information on how to enrol, please contact our ESOL team today at esol@functionalskillsuk.com.
