Core English skills - made easier

Overview

This course is for adults who want to build confidence with English before joining a Functional Skills course, including learners with dyslexia. It also supports adults already on the course by boosting skills for study success.

You will learn key reading and writing skills to help you in daily life and in your Functional Skills English course. The course includes dyslexia-friendly strategies and covers reading techniques, spotting facts and opinions, building sentences, understanding nouns and verbs, spellings, and using flashcards and highlighters. You will also learn simple ways to improve your confidence and independent study habits.

You will learn online through Google Classroom. Lessons include short tutor explanations, group discussion and practical activities. You will use real-life texts, photos and examples. The tutor will use dyslexia-friendly methods such as clear layouts, step-by-step tasks and visual support.

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements, but you need to be at least 19 to be eligible for our funding.

Assessment criteria

There is no exam. Your tutor will check your understanding through short online tasks. At the end of the course, you will complete a short writing task so your tutor can help plan your next steps. Dyslexia-friendly approaches are used throughout.

What do I need?

You need to attend online sessions and take part in simple reading and writing tasks. You will use your ILP each week to reflect on learning.

You will need access to Google Classroom – we will provide you with instructions. Your tutor will show you how to use the tools such as the chat and how to upload work.

You need a laptop with internet access and a webcam. A mobile phone is not suitable. You may also want a pen, paper and a folder. Highlighters and simple flashcards can also be helpful.

What can I do next?

You can move on to a Functional Skills English course at a level that suits you. Your tutor will advise you on the best next step based on your progress.