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What are functional skills?

At Harrogate Tutors, we want to ensure that you are fully informed regarding everything you need to know about Functional Skills. In essence, Functional Skills are equivalent qualifications that come in 2 levels, these being level 1 and level 2. The subjects you can get these equivalent qualifications in are Maths, English, and ICT.



Level 1 is equivalent to a passing grade in an SAT qualification. It demonstrates that you have a basic understanding of the subject. The exam and qualification are Ofqual regulated, so it will follow the government-set curriculum. Pass Functional Skills also works in partnership with different exam boards to ensure that the exam you are taking is the right one for you.



Level 2 is equivalent to a passing grade in a GCSE qualification. It is regulated by Ofqual, so you can be assured that the qualification will be accepted anywhere in England. It benefits from being much shorter than a 2-year GCSE course. As well as it can be taken any time of the year from your own home.


Both level 1 and level 2 are backed by multiple exam boards, these include:

  • NCFE

  • Open Awards

  • City & Guilds

  • AQA

  • Edexcel

  • OCR


Depending on both your background and your current position. You may be eligible for funding for the Functional Skills courses. If you are unsure or want to know more, get in contact with our team!

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For information on our tutoring services in the Harrogate area

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