Each level offers different routes — academic, vocational, or professional — so students can choose what suits their learning preference and career goals. There’s no one-size-fits-all.
Builds basic literacy, numeracy, and life skills. Often used as a stepping stone to Level 1.
For students who need to build up their basic skills or didn’t achieve strong GCSE results.
For students who have achieved some GCSEs at grades 3–9 (D–A*) preparing for further study or employment training.
For students who have completed Level 2 qualifications, the path to university, higher apprenticeships, or employment.
For students who want to continue learning after Level 3. Often leads to a full degree or higher professional roles.
For students aiming for university degrees or advanced professional qualifications.
Functional Skills qualifications in English and maths are designed to help learners develop practical skills they can use in everyday life, work, and further study.
They are available from Entry Level to Level 2.
Apprenticeships span Levels 2, 3 and are capped at Level 4, with each apprenticeship consisting of a maximum of 2 levels.
Durations range from a minimum of 1 year, to a max of 5 years for electrical qualifications.