The Edexcel (Pearson) Functional Skills English qualification is assessed through two papers: reading and writing. The reading paper includes questions based on a range of texts, testing your ability to extract information, make inferences, and analyse language features. The writing paper includes two extended writing tasks of varying lengths, with additional marks awarded for spelling, punctuation, and grammar.
Reading Practice Paper 1
Reading Practice Paper 2
Reading Practice Paper 3
Writing Practice Paper 1
Writing Practice Paper 2
Writing Practice Paper 3
| EXAM | MARKS | TIME |
|---|---|---|
|
Reading |
30 Marks |
1 Hour |
|
Writing |
36 Marks |
1 Hour |
|
Total |
66 Marks |
2 Hours |
93%
of Functional Skills UK students pass their exam on their first attempt.
Reading Practice Paper 1
Reading Practice Paper 2
Reading Practice Paper 3
Writing Practice Paper 1
Writing Practice Paper 2
Writing Practice Paper 3
| EXAM | MARKS | TIME |
|---|---|---|
|
Reading |
30 Marks |
1 Hour 15 Minutes |
|
Writing |
36 Marks |
1 Hour |
|
Total |
71 Marks |
2 Hours 15 Minutes |
Functional Skills Level 2 qualifications are equivalent to a GCSE Grade 4 (formerly Grade C). They are often accepted as alternatives to GCSEs for employment, apprenticeships, and higher education courses.
Functional Skills Level 1 qualifications are comparable to a GCSE Grade 2 or 3 (formerly Grades E–D). They provide foundational skills and can serve as a stepping stone to Level 2 qualifications.
Pass marks vary by subject, level, and awarding body. Generally:
English Level 2:
Reading: Approximately 60% (e.g., 21 out of 35 marks)
Writing: Approximately 58% (e.g., 21 out of 36 marks)
Maths Level 2: Approximately 55%–60% (e.g., 33–36 out of 60 marks)
*These figures are indicative and may vary slightly depending on the specific assessment and awarding body. See the official document from Pearson Edexcel here.
The duration depends on your prior knowledge and the time you can dedicate to study. On average:
Level 2 courses: 4 to 12 weeks
Level 1 courses: 2 to 8 weeks
Some learners may complete the courses faster with intensive study.
English:
Reading: Assessment of comprehension skills
Writing: Assessment of writing skills, including grammar and punctuation
Speaking, Listening, and Communicating: Assessed through a discussion or presentation
Maths:
Non-calculator section: Basic arithmetic and problem-solving
Calculator section: Practical maths, data interpretation, and algebra
Yes. If you don't pass, you can resit the assessment. It's advisable to review the areas you found challenging before retaking the exam. There may be a waiting period between attempts.
Yes. Functional Skills qualifications are recognised across the UK as valid alternatives to GCSEs. They are accepted by employers, apprenticeship programmes, and many universities, particularly for courses that require evidence of English and Maths proficiency.
We provide comprehensive support, including access to experienced tutors, study materials, and practice assessments. Our team is available to assist you throughout your learning journey to ensure you have the resources needed to succeed.
You can enrol by choosing the course you’re interested in and filling out your details in the form. We offer both Functional Skills Maths and Functional Skills English courses online and in-person.
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