Functional skills for degree apprentices
As an apprenticeship funding requirement, all apprentices aged 16-18 studying for a level 3 apprenticeship or higher are required to evidence achievement at level 2 in Mathematics and English before their gateway to endpoint assessment.
If the apprentice is aged 19+ when they begin their apprenticeship training, and they do not already hold a suitable equivalent qualification, English and / or maths is an optional part of the programme under the funding rules. However, L2 English remains a standard entry requirement for University of Exeter programmes.
Where apprentices have not been able to provide suitable evidence (as detailed below), they will be required to undertake Functional Skills Level 2 Qualifications on programme to meet this requirement. Where Level 2 English and Mathematics Qualifications are an entry requirement of the programme, prospective apprentices must submit this evidence upon application.
The gov.uk website outlines the evidence that can be used for this purpose. The University does not have discretion over the list of acceptable evidence, and where applicants are unable to provide the specific evidence required, they will be required to complete the appropriate Functional Skills Qualifications (even if they are otherwise well qualified and experienced).
Any international qualifications must be confirmed by UKENIC as being comparable to GCSE Mathematics and English (RQF L2).
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What are Functional Skills Qualifications?
Functional Skills Qualifications use practical skills to help learners gain essential knowledge and skills required in everyday life, education, and the workplace. They are recognised qualifications and are aimed at helping individuals enhance their employment and education prospects. For apprentices that require them to complete their apprenticeship we offer Functional Skills Level 2 Qualifications in English and Maths. Achievement in Level 2 in Functional Skills is broadly equivalent to GCSE 4-9 (C-A*).
What Functional Skills levels are offered in this programme?
The University of Exeter offers Functional Skills Qualifications in Maths and English at Level 2 to apprentices that require evidence of attainment in English and Mathematics for the purpose of completing their apprenticeship, and for those apprentices aged 19+ who choose to study these qualifications as an optional part of their programme.
How are the Functional Skills courses structured?
Our Functional Skills Qualifications are delivered as a 12-week online course. Each week is normally comprised of one hour of dedicated teaching for each subject and self-directed learning.
The course is delivered via the BKSB platform, ELE and Teams/Zoom which apprentices will have access to once they are enrolled on their apprenticeship.
The course spans over approximately 12 weeks, with structured learning and assessments to ensure comprehensive coverage of the curriculum.
What teaching capacity and support is provided to students?
Each subject includes one hour of teaching per week. Apprentices have access to online resources via the BKSB platform, ELE, as well as support from lecturers during scheduled teaching hours. Additional support can be arranged by contacting the lecturer.
Apprentices are required to complete the Initial Assessments on the BKSB platform to identify the level at which they are currently working to allow lecturers to adjust teaching to their needs. Apprentices will be required to complete a marked mock assessment prior to being entered for their live examinations.
How are students assessed?
Examinations are conducted online, and you will need to access a device that is compatible with the examination board’s requirements for remote online assessment. Further information will be shared upon enrolment to the course.
The online maths exam consists of one exam that lasts 105 minutes. There will be a non-calculator section, and a calculator section.
English has three exams reading (60 mins), writing (80mins), and speaking and listening assessment (approx. 1.5 – 2 hours).
Will I receive a certificate upon completion?
Apprentices who successfully complete the course and pass all formal assessments will receive a Level 2 Functional Skills Qualification certificate in Maths and/or English as appropriate.
Who can I contact for more information?
For more information, if you are a current enrolled apprentice please contact your programme support team in the first instance. If you have not yet applied or enrolled onto an apprenticeship you should contact the partnership development officer for the programme as listed on the course page.
