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At Calderdale College, our English and Maths courses for learners aged 19+ are designed to build confidence, develop essential skills, and open doors to further education or employment. We offer both Functional Skills and GCSE pathways to suit individual needs and starting points.
Functional Skills courses focus on practical, everyday use of English and Maths, ideal for those wanting to improve core skills quickly. Our GCSE courses provide a nationally recognised qualification, supporting progression to higher education or professional careers.
Delivered by experienced, supportive tutors, lessons are engaging and tailored to adult learners, with a strong emphasis on achievement and personal growth. Whether returning to learning or aiming to meet entry requirements for further study or employment, our courses provide the foundation for success.
Start Date
Various Start Dates
Entry Requirements & Interview Process
You will be required to complete an Initial Assessment, which determines your current level of understanding in the subject. This helps us place you on the most suitable course for your skills. Once this has been completed, you will be enrolled to begin your English and/or Maths learning journey.
You will need to complete an online application. Then you will be invited in to an assessment and enrolment day to complete the assessment, discuss options with a qualified tutor and then enrol.
Progression
Your entry level will determine your learning pathway; you may progress through the Functional Skills levels before moving on to GCSEs, or you may start at GCSE level if appropriate. English and Maths are essential gateway qualifications that support progression into apprenticeships, employment, or higher education.
Assessment Methods
Functional Skills Entry1-Entry 3 will be internally assessed by our subject specialists and then internally and externally verified to ensure they meet qualification standards.
Functional Skills Level 1 & Level 2 are demand-led external exams, which means we can enter you into your exam when you’re ready.
Course Fees
Free for everyone as long as you don’t have a GCSE Grade 4 or above.
Career Opportunities
Apprenticeships – Many apprenticeship programmes require a minimum of Level 2 in English and Maths. Achieving these qualifications can open the door to vocational training in areas such as health and social care, business administration or construction.
Employment – Employers across all sectors value strong English and Maths skills. Gaining Functional Skills or GCSEs can improve your chances of securing roles in customer service, retail, administration, and many other fields.
Higher Education – GCSEs in English and Maths are essential for many college and university courses, particularly in areas like nursing, teaching, and social work. Achieving these qualifications can help you meet entry requirements and pursue your chosen career path.
Calderdale College has a set of standard entry requirements. Apply for the course you want to study and we will help you get there.
There are a lot of courses available – work focused, practical and academic so it is important to think about the future and whether you want to proceed to university, move onto another course or get a job. We offer BTECs, Apprenticeships, T Levels, NVQs, VRQs, Degree Level Courses and more.
If you’re still not sure, don’t worry, just speak to a member of our advice and guidance team who will advise you.
Term Dates
Spring Term
6th Jan 2025 – 14th Feb 2025
24th Feb 2025 – 4th Apr 2025
Summer Term
22nd Apr 2025 – 23rd May 2025
2nd June 2025 – 27th June 2025
Calderdale College
Francis Street
Halifax
West Yorkshire
HX1 3UZ
United Kingdom
