Build the maths & English employers ask for
Free Functional Skills, GCSE, Key Stage 3 and ESOL practice — exam-style questions, timed mocks and a clear explanation for every answer. Functional Skills Level 2 is widely accepted as equivalent to a GCSE grade 4.
The Functional Skills ladder
Functional Skills runs from Entry Level up to Level 2. Most apprenticeships and employers want Level 2 — equivalent to a GCSE grade 4.
Not sure where you are? Take the free 2-minute level check →
Functional Skills, GCSE & more
Functional Skills
The applied maths, English and digital qualifications employers and apprenticeships ask for — Entry Level through Level 2.
Functional Skills Maths Entry Level
Start practising →Functional Skills English Entry Level
Start practising →Functional Skills Maths L1
Start practising →Functional Skills English L1
Start practising →Functional Skills Digital L1
Start practising →Functional Skills Maths L2
Start practising →Functional Skills English L2
Start practising →Digital Skills Level 2
Start practising →GCSE
Sitting (or resitting) GCSE maths, English or science? Practise the full foundation and higher content.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9)
Build the foundations before GCSE with Years 7–9 maths, English and science.
A-level
Going further after GCSE — A-level practice across maths, the sciences and psychology.
ESOL
English for speakers of other languages.
What to expect on the day
Mostly on-screen
Maths and English are usually taken on a computer at a registered centre or college, often on demand rather than only in the summer.
One national standard
Awarded by Pearson Edexcel, City & Guilds, NCFE, Open Awards and others — all to the same reformed (2019) standards.
Applied, not abstract
You apply maths and English to real situations — budgeting, measurements, work emails, instructions — so our practice mirrors that style.
Where Functional Skills takes you
- Apprenticeships — Level 2 maths & English are required to complete most apprenticeships.
- A faster GCSE alternative — sit on demand and get a Level 2 without waiting for summer exams.
- Access to Higher Education & university — many courses accept Functional Skills Level 2.
- Careers — nursing, teaching assistants, the uniformed services and many employers ask for Level 2.
Functional Skills: your questions answered
Is Functional Skills the same as a GCSE?
Not identical, but Functional Skills Level 2 in maths or English is widely accepted as equivalent to a GCSE grade 4 (a "C") — for apprenticeships, many jobs, Access to Higher Education and university entry. It is applied and practical rather than theory-heavy, and you can sit it on demand throughout the year rather than waiting for the summer.
Which level do I need?
Most apprenticeships and employers ask for Level 2 maths and English. Level 1 is a stepping stone towards it, and Entry Levels 1–3 build the foundations first. If you are unsure, start at Level 1 — if it feels comfortable, move up to Level 2.
Who runs the Functional Skills exams?
Functional Skills qualifications are awarded by bodies such as Pearson Edexcel, City & Guilds, NCFE and Open Awards, all to the same national standards (reformed in 2019). Maths and English are usually taken on a computer, often on demand, through a registered centre or college.
Is PassNova practice really free?
Yes — all Functional Skills, GCSE, Key Stage 3 and ESOL practice on PassNova is completely free, with no sign-up needed to start. A free account is optional and just saves your progress.
Can adults take Functional Skills?
Absolutely — Functional Skills is hugely popular with adult learners returning to study, often funded for free in England for those without a Level 2. It is a flexible route to the maths and English many careers, apprenticeships and courses require.