Functional skills Level 2 English

[Unformidable]

If a pupil has achieved a L2 Functional Skills in English, would they still have to sit a GCSE English when at a FE institution/college? Pupil has an EHCP if that makes any difference.

Anyone?

What age?
Have they attempted GCSE? If so, what grade did they get?

I would have thought level 2 is acceptable in most cases.

Yes they would be expected to take GCSE at an FE College. The LA would be funding support in the lessons?

What age?
Have they attempted GCSE? If so, what grade did they get?

16y. Predicted 4/5 GCSE English this summer. The FE college said he’d need to retake if he doesn’t achieve a 4. I’m not sure this is correct, esp as he has an EHCP, and DfE have said colleges can use their discretion.

Depends what level the FE course would be I think. I’m taking a level 3 course and needed either GCSE English and Maths or functional skills level 2 as they are considered equivalent.

Thanks missyB1

He’s hoping to study 3 ‘A’ levels next year. He achieved 6/7/8s in his other GCSE mocks.

If he hopes to continue with essay based subjects at A level they may expect a gcse 4/5 in either English language or lit.

It often depends on the college and what course as pp have said.

We have had kids do practical subjects at our college where they are happy to accept L2 functional skills and not for academic subjects.

Thanks all. It sounds like colleges have some discretion. Fingers crossed

If he gets a grade 3 then college are obliged provide GCSE resit classes and will be funded to provide this opportunity. I'd imagine they will force him to resit.

If he's predicted 4/5 then I'd be doing everything in my power to help him get it this summer. He obviously has the ability. Employers often don't realise the equivalence of functional skills and GCSE. Further study beyond college may also require GCSE English.

Functional skills is used for students achieving a g1 or 2. It is equivalent to GCSE but less rigorous and easier for students to access.

www.tes.com/news/gcse-resits-dfe-updates-english-and-maths-policy

Dermymc Perfect, thank you! That is very helpful