How can I prepare for functional skills?

Preparing for the delivery of functional skills
Centres are advised that a useful way of preparing for functional skills qualifications will be to develop familiarity with the draft standards.

What models are there for us to consider now?

Key skills
Centres delivering and assessing key skills in communication, application of number and ICT will have already considered alternative methods of support for learners practising the skills, collecting evidence and taking tests.  Although we can’t be sure that the assessment will include test and portfolio, it is possible that across the subjects and levels both assessment methods will be included.  Helpful suggestions for how to embed models of delivery and assessment can be found on our website and in our Skills for Life Centre Support Pack, which can be obtained by emailing at skillsforlife@edexcel.org.uk.

Adult Literacy Adult Numeracy
One of the overriding requirements of the functional skills assessment is the ability for learners to take the assessment when they are ready to achieve (rather like a driving test).  So, assessment on demand is intended to be a feature of each subject and level.  The functional skills requirement will also be a part of the GCSE in maths, English and ICT, for which learners will have to achieve to achieve an A*-C grade.

Therefore, centres that are currently offering adult literacy and numeracy qualifications as an integrated part of the GCSE in maths and English are not only offering their learners a worthwhile qualification, they are also supporting their staff in developing the techniques they will need to deliver on-demand assessment as part of the GCSE.  For further details on the delivery and assessment of the adult literacy and numeracy qualifications, please visit www.edexcel.org.uk/quals/alan.

Is there any training available to help my staff prepare?
Given that centres are at differing stages of development, Edexcel proposes to offer customised training that is tailored to meet the individual requirements of the centre.  For more information on Edexcel’s bespoke service, please contact us on 0870 240 9800.