Functional Skills / Key Skills

What are Functional Skills / Key Skills?

Key Skills and Functional Skills are nationally recognised stand alone qualifications. In September 2010 Key Skills are being phased out and Functional Skills will replace them. Both qualifications aim to develop and measure transferable skills which are needed in a range of activities – from education and training to work and life in general.Key and Functional Skills will give you further confidence in your abilities. They will look good on your CV and are viewed favourably by employers. They can also help you move onto studying for further and higher qualifications.

Who can study for Key Skills / Functional Skills?

There are no minimum entry requirements to undertake Key Skills. The College of Animal Welfare offers most students the opportunity to study Key Skills alongside its programmes. They also form part of the QCF qualifications and the apprenticeship framework.

What Functional Skills are available?

Functional Skills are available in English, Mathematics and Information Technology (IT) and can be taken at a level to suit your course and your needs.

How are they assessed?

For each Key Skill you take you will be expected to pass an online test and produce a portfolio which contains evidence to show that you have the necessary skills to pass. However, Functional Skills will be assessed by the means of a test only – no portfolio is required. The tests may be a combination of online and written, which will be marked externally by the awarding body.