Course Overview
ESOL Functional Skills classes are for adults from overseas who are settled in the UK and want to learn or improve their English. You’ll study in a friendly, supportive environment where you can build vocabulary, develop grammar skills, and practice English through practical, everyday topics. You will also work towards getting a Functional Skills qualification in English.
At Strode College we offer four morning classes at different levels: Beginners, Elementary, Intermediate, and Advanced. There is also one evening class which this year will be taught at Intermediate/Advanced. The morning classes run from 9.45am – 12.45pm, Monday to Thursday, and the evening class is on Wednesdays from 6.45pm – 9pm. Classes run from September to June, late starts may be possible but the course is not suitable for people staying in the UK for only a short period.
Topics may include:
- Grammar
- Conversational language.
Assessment Methods
As part of the course, you will prepare for Functional Skills exams in Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening. You need to pass all parts to get the full qualification. There are five levels available, and your teacher will enter you for the right level for you. Functional Skills qualifications are nationally recognised by employers and education providers.
Progression Options
There are five levels of exam from Entry 1 to Level 2.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can apply directly on any of the UCS College Group websites, whether you wish to study at Bridgwater College, Cannington College, Strode College, or Taunton College. Simply use our “Find a Course” feature and follow the on-screen instructions – be sure to have your important information to hand.
We aim to offer a careers service that is accessible to everyone. We will seek to equip all our students with the skills and knowledge that will enable them to operate confidently, effectively, and independently in life and work. All students have the opportunity to meet with a Careers Advisor for 1:1 career support.
The Student Experience Team can mentor and signpost students who are struggling with a range of issues that are negatively impacting their day-to-day life. The Student Experience Team works closely with the Safeguarding & Lifestyle Teams to promote proactive wellbeing enrichment sessions. The team can refer on to counselling when appropriate.
We provide top-quality workshops and teaching areas across our Colleges for subjects such as art, design and media, hair and beauty, catering, automotive engineering and construction. You can review our campus facilities by navigating to the “College Life” section of our websites.
For us, the success of our students always comes first. By investing in our built environment, we are investing in your future.
All of our students will have a personal tutor to support them with their academic progress and personal development. The tutorial programme consists of 1:1 support, group tutorials and guest speakers, plus targeted online resources which complement the UCS College Group Advantage scheme.
The Safeguarding Team can offer advice and guidance on anything that may be affecting your young person and their studies – no problem is too big or too small!
Please email our Safeguarding team at staysafe@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk. If you query is urgent, please come to the College Reception and ask to speak to a Safeguarding Officer.
If you cannot find an answer to your question in this FAQ section, you can ask us a question by visiting our Contact Us page.