These courses are usually free but conditions apply. You will either need some qualifications in these subjects already, or you will need to do our pre-course assessments. To apply to study one of the courses listed below please click the button and fill out the short form.
** Please note these courses run regularly so you can start them at different points during the year.
The next Digital Skills intake will be in September.
If you have any questions about adult courses please call 01925 624455 or email adultsenrol@priestley.ac.uk
Day: Mondays and Tuesdays
Time: 6:45 – 8:45 pm
Course length: Up to 26 weeks
Fee: Free to those who do not already have a grade C/4 at GCSE (subject to funding regulations)
WHY TAKE THIS COURSE?
The Functional English course is designed to give adults the English skills needed to operate confidently, effectively and independently in education, work and everyday life.
The Monday evening course is designed for students who need to build their skills. It allows you to work at a more relaxed pace than our other English courses, so that you gain confidence and skills to move on when you are ready.
WHAT ARE THE KEY TOPICS IT WILL COVER?
The qualification is divided into 3 units. You need to achieve all 3 units which combine to form the full award.
The units are:
- Speaking and listening. This will include discussion and presentation skills.
- Reading
- Writing
The content of each unit is selected to be relevant, practical and topical to stimulate and motivate you in your work. The units are interwoven so you will gain maximum benefits from developing reading, writing and speaking and listening skills simultaneously.
Your tutor will assess what skills you already have in each of these areas, and plan your learning according to your needs. Your progress will be recorded in an individual learning plan (ILP), which is completed by yourself and your tutor.
WHO WILL THE COURSE SUIT?
This course is ideal for anyone who wants to brush up their English skills and needs a nationally recognised qualification to further their career or even to “keep up with the children” at school. We will expect you to attend every session and to practise what you have learned between classes, in order to maintain your new skills.
You will not be eligible to enrol on Functional English courses if:
- You already have a grade C (4) or higher in GCSE English.
- You are already doing a full-time course with another provider or Functional English is included in any other course with another provider.
- You are on an apprenticeship scheme.
IS THERE A QUALIFICATION AT THE END OF THE COURSE?
You will work towards a certificate in Functional English. This may be at Entry Level to start with. We will provide you with information, advice and guidance about the most suitable qualification and level after your assessment.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
You will complete an ‘initial assessment’, which will allow us to ensure that you are on the right level for this course and that the course is suitable for you.
Throughout the course your tutor will give you regular feedback on completed work, which should include homework and practice assessments when appropriate. You will also use your individual learning plan to assess your own progress each week and at the end of each half term.
In order to gain your qualification, you will take short tests for the Reading and the Writing units. For the Speaking and Listening unit you will be expected to take part in short discussions.
Assessments are taken in class whenever your tutor agrees that you are ready for them.
If your attendance falls below 80% and you do not catch up on the work you have missed, we reserve the right to withdraw you from the final examination.
To express an interest in this course please complete the on-line form using this link: Course enquiry form. Alternatively, ‘phone the Adult College on 01925 624455 or email adultsenrol@priestley.ac.uk
Day: Monday
Time: 6:30 – 8:45 pm
Course length: approx. 26 weeks
Fee: Free to learners who are eligible – see below. For others £724
Note that a pre-course assessment will be required for this course. See Entry Requirements.
Course outline
Our Functional Skills maths courses are for anyone who does not have a maths GCSE Grade C (4) qualification and would like to improve or update their skills. They are also suitable for learners whose first language is not English, and who have achieved a minimum of a level 1 English Language qualification.
If you do not have a grade 4 (C) or above in maths at GCSE level, then this course is free.
Our friendly and supportive tutors will work with you to find out which areas you would like to improve and put together an individual plan.
There will also be a chance to study for a nationally-recognised qualification.
These courses run in the evening and are ideal if you are employed and/or have family commitments.
What will I learn?
We will cover all the basics that you may have missed during your formal education. This will give you the skills and confidence you need to succeed in most mathematical challenges.
- Use of numbers and the number system
- Use of measure, shape and space
- Handling information and data
- Solving mathematical problems and decision making
You can gain a national qualification at level 1 and 2 in maths.
Improving your maths skills can give you the confidence to help you reach your individual goals, whether it be helping your children with their homework, moving into employment, or gaining further qualifications.
What do I need to do now?
This course is suitable if you have already achieved an entry 3 and level math’s qualification. You will be asked to attend an initial assessment to identify which course is right for you. You also will need to make a firm commitment to attend for the whole course.
Complete the on-line enquiry form and we will be in touch to arrange an assessment of your numeracy level. Course enquiry form
Day: Next intake will be in September.
Time: 2.5 hours per week
Course length: Up to 18 weeks
Fee: Free to those who meet eligibility requirements
WHY TAKE THIS COURSE?
WHAT ARE THE KEY TOPICS IT WILL COVER?
- Using Devices: Operating digital devices, saving files, and using cloud storage.
- Online Communication: Setting up email, video calls, and safe online interactions.
- Finding Information: Effective internet searches and spotting reliable sources.
- Creating Content: Basics of word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations.
- Digital Safety: Protecting personal information and avoiding online threats.
- Troubleshooting: Solving common technical issues and finding support.
- Digital Transactions: Safe online payments and managing subscriptions.
- Work & Learning Tools: Using digital tools for collaboration and e-learning.
WHO WILL THE COURSE SUIT?
IS THERE A QUALIFICATION AT THE END OF THE COURSE?
Upon successful completion, learners receive a nationally recognised certificate that demonstrates their competency in essential digital skills.
This qualification is accredited and aligns with the UK’s national standards for digital literacy, making it a valuable addition to your CV and a great asset for employment, education, or personal development.
To express an interest in this course please complete the online form using this link
Alternatively, ‘phone the Adult College on 01925 633591 or email adultsenrol@priestley.ac.uk
