Functional skills: maths

Overview

This course is for adults who want to improve their maths skills for everyday life, work, or further study. It is suitable for learners who have not yet achieved a Level 2 Functional Skills Maths qualification or a GCSE grade 4. It also supports those who want to build confidence in maths for personal or family reasons.

You will develop maths skills used in everyday situations, including working with numbers, calculations, time, shape and space, and data handling. The course follows the Pearson Functional Skills Maths specification (2019 reforms) and helps you apply maths confidently in real‑life and work‑related contexts.  

You will learn online in small, supportive classes using Google Classroom. Lessons include tutor‑led teaching, practical activities, group work, and independent tasks you can complete at home. Courses run for two and a half hours per week. You will need a laptop or tablet to take part; this course cannot be completed on a mobile phone.

Entry requirements

You can enrol if you have not yet achieved Level 2 Functional skills Maths or GCSE Maths at grade 4. Before starting, you will meet with a Learning Advisor and complete a short skills check to ensure this is the right course for you. Contact your local Learn Devon centre to arrange an appointment.

Assessment criteria

Assessment takes place at the end of the course under exam conditions at a Learn Devon centre. You will complete two papers on the same day. The first paper is non‑calculator and the second allows calculator use. Your tutor will confirm the exam date at the start of the course.

What do I need?

As this is an online course, you will need a good internet connection and a computer/tablet or similar device to connect to the lessons. A mobile phone is not suitable to undertake this course.  You will also need a pen, pencil, and a notebook, as well as the items listed in the equipment list below. Squared paper, while not required, can be useful for calculations and diagrams. 

You will need a calculator for this course, we recommend the Casio fx-85GTX but anything similar will work just as well. You will also need a simple geometry set containing a protractor, a compass as well as a 30cm ruler. Talk to your tutor about any books that they would recommend to help you on this course

You must be able to attend all sessions and complete weekly homework. Homework supports learning, checks understanding, and provides feedback on progress. Regular attendance and completion of tasks are essential for success on the course.

What can I do next?

After completing this course, you may progress to the next level of Functional Skills Maths. Learners who achieve Level 2 may choose to progress to GCSE Maths. Many employers and education providers accept Level 2 Functional Skills Maths as an alternative to GCSE.