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Level up with maths and English courses including functional skills with learndirect

Our first introduction to academic life is through core subjects, including English and Maths. This is because they provide us with basic skills and knowledge that we use in our everyday lives. If you were unable to gain English and Maths GCSE qualifications at school, there is hope left! 

At learndirect, we provide online courses that come with recognised GCSE qualifications, as well as Functional Skills Level 2, which are equivalent to GCSEs. As well as achieving the qualifications you need to progress to further education and eventually the career you desire, you also have the added benefit of studying online. 

Whether you opt for English and/or Maths GCSEs, Functional Skills, or iGCSEs, you can learn from the comfort of your own home! We also offer courses in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). 

Take one step closer to your academic goals by starting a course today! 

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’ve ever asked yourself “What is Functional Skills?, or “What qualification is Functional Skills?”, they are nationally recognised qualifications in Maths and English. Designed to give you the essential knowledge needed for work, further study, and everyday life, Functional Skills qualifications are an alternative to GCSEs and are accepted by many employers, training providers, and universities.
Functional Skills qualifications are available from Entry Level 1 through to Level 2. Entry Levels are designed to build up confidence and cover the basics, while Level 1 is equivalent to a GCSE grade D–G (3–1). Level 2 is the highest level, equivalent to a GCSE grade C/4 or above, and this is the qualification you’ll usually need to progress into university or meet job requirements.
Many learners ask, “Do universities accept Functional Skills?” The answer is yes, most universities in the UK accept Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths as an alternative to GCSEs. However, each university sets its own entry requirements, so it’s always best to double-check with your chosen institution before applying.
Once you’ve completed your final exam, you can expect to receive your Functional Skills certification within 6 weeks. This quick turnaround means you won’t have to wait long before you can use your qualification to apply for jobs, apprenticeships, or university.
Yes – with learndirect, there’s the added bonus of an online exam, allowing you to take your test from the comfort of your own home.

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The team were super at making me feel confident I could have had a bit more information but overall it gave me confidence to start my course and new career

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Laura was great very supportive and great guidance… very buzzed

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Laura was phenomenal! She was chatty, witty and easy to talk to. She answered all my questions but also explained more about the course I was interested in. Very excited to be a part of her team and would definitely recommend her to anyone wanting to start a course today!

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I have been considering nursing for some time now and decided to get in touch with learn direct to get me started. Jordan was excellent and extremely helpful in explaining the process and what courses I would need to take to enable me to apply for university. The learning platform is great and I am enjoying it so far. Thank you Jordan and learn direct for helping me to get started on my new journey. Miriam

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