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NATIONALLY RECOGNISED QUALIFICATION
Rated 4.7/5

Functional Skills
English Level 1
Online Course with Exam

Achieve your nationally recognised Functional Skills English Level 1 qualification 100% online at your own pace, with 1-to-1 tutor support and an official exam through a recognised awarding body.

Pass with confidence. Progress in your career.

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Exam Boards

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Included

OFFICIAL EXAM STARTS FROM
£174 £248.57 30% OFF

or from £43.50/month — pay in 4 installments

Choose the option that’s right for you

  • Full online English Level 1 course.
  • Official exam with your chosen board.
  • 1:1 live tutor support until you pass.
  • Free resit included.
  • Marked mock exams & feedback.
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Ofqual
Pearson
Open Awards
TQUK
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You need to book your Speaking, Listening and Communicating (SLC) exam date separately. Please check your email inbox / spam for schedule instructions after placing the order.
If you would like to book alternative dates, additional charges would apply. Please check the availability of alternative dates with us at exams@lead-academy.org.
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EXAM BOARDS

Choose the Exam Board
That’s Right for You.

All qualifications are nationally recognised. Choose the awarding organisation that best suits your needs.

  • The most recognised exam board in UK.
  • Widely accepted by employers, colleges and universities.
Paper-Based Exam in the CentreBook within 15 days
Remote Online Exam - From HomeBook within 7 working days
ResultsGet results in 20 working days
View Requirements
  • Flexible exam options to suit your needs.
  • Popular online route with great flexibility.
Paper-Based Exam in the CentreBook within 15 working days
Live Online Exam with 1:1 InvigilationBook within 3 working days
ResultsOnline results in 8 working days and paper-based in 32 working days
View Requirements
  • Trusted UK awarding organisation and all over the world.
  • High-quality qualifications and assessments.
Paper-Based Exam in the CentreBook within 10 working days
Remote Online Exam - From HomeBook within 2 working days
ResultsOnline results in 6 working days and paper-based in 26 working days
View Requirements
95% Pass Rate

Students have successfully passed their Functional Skills exams

after completing their courses or exams with Lead Academy.

Explore Our Reviews
EXAM BREAKDOWN

Details of Exam Structure
& Pass Marks

Functional Skills English exam durations, marks, and pass thresholds vary by awarding body, which you can find below:

Reading Exam

60 - 75 Minutes
Awarding BodyDurationMarksPass Mark
Pearson Edexcel75 mins3565%
Open Awards60 mins3018 / 30
TQUK60 mins30Varies

Reading is evaluated through a test consisting of multiple-choice, short open-response, and medium open-response questions.

Writing Exam

60 Minutes
Awarding BodyDurationMarksPass Mark
Pearson Edexcel60 mins3663%
Open Awards60 mins6036 / 60
TQUK60 mins54Varies

Reading/Writing Exam Pass Mark: Learners should achieve the overall marks mentioned in the table to pass the reading/writing exam.

Speaking, Listening & Communicating (SLC) Exam

60 Minutes
Awarding BodyDurationMarks
Pearson Edexcel60 minsPass / Fail
Open Awards60 minsPass / Fail
TQUK60 minsPass / Fail

The duration of the SLC exam session may vary depending on the number of students attending.

SLC ASSESSMENT FORMAT

See how the presentation, Q&A, and discussion activities are structured for each awarding body.

Pearson Edexcel: 3 to 4-min short talk & 2 to 3-min Q&A + at least 10-min formal discussion in groups of 3–5. Via Microsoft Teams.
Open Awards: 10-min group discussion & Q&A (group of 3–5) + 10-min local debate (group of 3–5). Via Microsoft Teams.
TQUK: 5 to 7-min presentation & 3 to 6-min Q&A (group of 3–5) + 10 to 15-min formal discussion (group of 3–5). Via Microsoft Teams.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

Real English Skills.
Real Confidence, Real Results.

Every topic that can appear in your English exam is covered with video tutorials, practice questions, worksheets and tutor-marked assignments.

1

Reading

Read and understand a range of texts, identify main points and compare information with confidence.

  • Text Types
  • Fact & Opinion
  • Bias & Tone
  • Comparing Texts
2

Writing

Write clearly and accurately for any purpose, with correct spelling, punctuation and grammar.

  • Spelling
  • Punctuation
  • Grammar
  • Formatting
3

Speaking & Listening

Communicate confidently in presentations and discussions, adapting your tone to any audience.

  • Presentations
  • Discussions
  • Explanations
  • Audience & Tone

Focused Learning

Only the skills you need, nothing you don’t.

Progress Tracking

See your improvement every step of the way.

Learn At Your Pace

Study when it suits you, anytime, anywhere.

Exam Ready Skills

Master what matters and feel confident on exam day.

HOW YOU’LL LEARN

Ideal for Busy Individuals.
No Previous Experience Needed.

Our simple step-by-step learning journey gives you everything you need to learn, practice and achieve.

01

Enroll Today

Get instant access to your learning portal and everything you need to begin.

02

Study atAt Your Pace

Learn whenever it suits your schedule with easy-to-follow lessons.

03

Practice & Improve

Build confidence with guided activities and practice questions.

04

Take Mock examsExams

Prepare using realistic exam-style questions and track your progress.

05

Book Your Exam

Choose a date, location and time that works best for you.

06

Achieve Qualification

Pass your exam and receive official, recognised qualification.

We’re with you every step of the way - from start to success

WHY LEAD ACADEMY?

Everything You Need to Pass in One Place.

More than just course content. You get live support, flexibility and a safety net most providers don’t offer.

1/6

Fast Exam Booking

Book your remote exam in as little as 2-3 working days and get your results within 7 working days.

Quick booking, Faster results.
2/6

Choice of 3 Exam Boards

Sit your exam with Pearson Edexcel, Open Awards or Training Qualifications UK - choose the route that suits you best.

Choose what works best for you.
3/6

Pay in 4 Installments

Spread the cost-free from £43.50/month - so price never gets in the way of your goal.

Flexible payments, Zero stress.
4/6

1:1 Live Tutor support

Dedicated English tutors guide you through live sessions - not just videos and a self service portal.

Real people, Real help, Real results.
5/6

14 Days Money Back

Enrol with confidence. If it’s not right for you, get a full refund within 14 days - no questions asked.

Risk-free. 100% peace of mind.
6/6

Free Resit Included

Didn’t pass first time? Your bundle includes a free resit, so there’s no extra cost or added pressure.

You’re covered, No extra fees.
WHY CHOOSE FUNCTIONAL SKILLS ENGLISH LEVEL 1?

Advance Your Career.
Trusted by Employers and Universities.

This qualification focuses on practical English skills you’ll actually use in work, study and everyday life - not just theory.

Practical & Relevant

Learn English that applies to real-world situations you encounter every day.

Boost Opportunities

Improve your career prospects and open doors to further education and apprenticeships

Build Confidence

Step by step support that helps you progress at your own pace and achieve your goals.

Practical & Relevant

Learn English that applies to real-world situations you encounter every day.

See The Difference

Traditional GCSE

  • Theory-Heavy content
  • One-size-fits-all teaching
  • Designed for school students
  • Less focused on workplace skills

Functional Skills
English Level 1

  • Focus on practical real-life EnglishEnglish For Everyday Life
  • Personalised support every step of the wayStep-by-Step Personal Support
  • Designed for adults & career changersFor adults & career changers
  • Skills employers actually value
VS VS VS VS

Get The Skills That Move You Forward

Whether you’re returning to education, changing careers, or aiming higher - this qualification helps you get there.

Flexible
Exam Booking

Quick
Results

Nationally
Recognised

TRUSTED BY LEARNERS

Thousands of Satisfied Learners.

Our learners have achieved their goals with Lead Academy. Here are just a few of their success stories.

Scarlett Robertson

Fantastic learning platform

5/5

“I am thrilled to have completed functional skills English level 1 course online. The virtual learning platform is fantastic.”

Course Completed

Functional Skills English Level 1

Scarlett Robertson

Verified Learner

Verified Review

Google Reviews

Harry Adams

Incredibly helpful tutors

5/5

“The tutor support and live chat support are incredibly helpful. I felt encouraged to ask questions, and my tutor provided detailed feedback on my writing. The level 1 writing examples were also very useful.”

Course Completed

Functional Skills English Level 1

Harry Adams

Verified Learner

Verified Review

Google Reviews

Matilda Turner

Highly recommended

5/5

“I was able to improve my English language skills by this course. I highly recommend this online course.”

Course Completed

Functional Skills English Level 1

Matilda Turner

Verified Learner

Verified Review

Google Reviews

Henry Bell

Perfect course

5/5

“This course is perfect for anyone who wants to improve their English language skills.”

Course Completed

Functional Skills English Level 1

Henry Bell

Verified Learner

Verified Review

Google Reviews

Isla Mitchell

Thank you Lead Academy

5/5

“The level 1 writing examples were very helpful, and writing past Edexcel papers helped me to prepare for the exam. Highly Recommended.”

Course Completed

Functional Skills English Level 1

Isla Mitchell

Verified Learner

Verified Review

Google Reviews

Charlie Simpson

Exceptional tutor support

5/5

“I appreciated the one-year access, as it gave me ample time to complete the course. Most importantly, the tutor support was exceptional.”

Course Completed

Functional Skills English Level 1

Charlie Simpson

Verified Learner

Verified Review

Google Reviews

Excellent 4.7 out of 5
Google Based on 21 Reviews
VIDEO REVIEWS

What Our Students Say in Their Own Words.

Watch and hear from learners who passed their Functional Skills English Level 1 exam and took the next step with confidence.

Real Students, Real Experiences

See Success Stories

Verified Student Reviews

All reviews are from our real students who completed the course successfully.

Real Experiences

Hear directly from our students about their journey and success.

Inspiration & Motivation

Be inspired by their stories and see what you can achieve from us.

READY TO GET STARTED?

Your Future Starts Now

Join thousands of learners worldwide and take the first step towards a better future today.

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QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Functional Skills English Level 1 FAQs

Level 1 English equals a GCSE Grade 1 to 3 or D-G. This means that achieving a Level 1 qualification in English demonstrates a basic understanding and practical application of the English language, including reading, writing, and communication skills.

The advanced course of functional skills English level 1 is the level 2 English course. In the advanced course, you will learn English in depth.

Some universities may approve the functional skills English level 1 as an alternative to GCSEs or other qualifications, it ultimately depends on the specific university and its admissions policies. Therefore, it's best to check with the university's requirements. However, most universities usually require a higher level of English proficiency, like Functional Skills English level2 GCSE Grade C/4 in English.

Lead Academy's Pearson Edexcel and NCFE Qualifications in English Level 1 consist of internally marked speaking, listening, and communicating assessments and externally marked reading and writing assessments. The speaking and listening assessments include a 5-minute presentation and a 15-minute formal discussion in groups of three to five learners. The reading assessment lasts 75 minutes and consists of multiple-choice, short open-response, and medium open-response questions. The writing assessment, which includes tasks assessing spelling, punctuation, and grammar, lasts 60 minutes.

Functional English skills Level 1 is generally less complicated than GCSE English. The exam focuses on basic language skills and communication, emphasizing practical, real-world applications. The exam is designed to be accessible to many learners, including those who may have struggled with traditional classroom-based learning. However, it still requires a good understanding and proficiency in English, so preparing and practicing in advance is essential.

A Functional skills course develops for the one who wants to learn Math, English, and ICT for individual achievement in the daily workplace. On the other hand, GCSE focuses on theories and tests your academic ability.

A confirmation email will be sent to your registered email after payment. Hereafter anytime, you can start your learning journey with Lead Academy.

For Pearson Edexcel and NCFE:

To sit your assessment, you’ll need:

  • A laptop/desktop with webcam and microphone; you can’t sit the assessment on a tablet or smartphone a good Wi-Fi connection – recommended minimum 1Mbit/s Upload, minimum 10Mbit/s Download. You MUST use google chrome browser for the exam, as this is recommended by the awarding body.
  • A smartphone or tablet (Apple iOS 8.0 / Android 4.1 or higher) - this will be used to record you taking the assessment.
  • A suitable environment - quiet room with no distractions
  • The link for the assessment sent to your email; remember to check your spam/junk folder.
  • You must activate Airplane mode on your smartphone however you need to be connected to Wi-Fi, so turn on Airplane mode then reactivate your Wi-Fi.
  • Please familiarise yourself with the potential violations as these can potentially lead to the assessment being voided.
  • Ensure ALL equipment is plugged in (including phone for the recording of sessions). Loss of power at any point could lead to the assessment being voided.
  • You must brief other members of your household/workplace that you’re sitting an assessment, and they must not enter the room at any point.
  • There is a 24-hour live chat function within the assessment software for technical support should you need it at any time.


  • For Open Awards:

    In order to take your exam, you need to have the following equipment:

  • A good quality laptop or PC with a minimum screen size of approx. 14” and minimum resolution of 1024 x 768.
  • A stable internet connection with at least 3mbps.
  • An integrated (i.e., fixed) webcam on your PC/ laptop or a portable webcam.
  • If using a PC/ laptop with an integrated webcam, a reflective surface (e.g., a mirror) must be available. This will be used to show the invigilator the space immediately surrounding your screen and keyboard.
  • A basic (non-scientific) calculator for maths assessments. You will have access to an on-screen calculator but may feel more comfortable using a separate calculator. Please note that all workings need to be added to the assessment platform if you use a separate calculator so that your workings can be marked.
  • Plain paper. You will need to show this to your invigilator at the beginning of the exam to assure them that you do not have access to notes.
  • A dictionary (where allowed).


  • Supported Browsers
    Chrome: 34.0.1847 or above
    Microsoft Edge: Version 88.0.705.81 or newer Firefox: 31.0 or above Safari: 6.2 or above Safe Exam Browser 2.0.2 or above
    Please note: Chromebooks are not compatible with the Safe Exam Browser
    Browser settings
    Popups must be allowed.
    Guidance on how to do this below:
    Chrome
    Edge
    Firefox
    Safari



    For TQUK:

    Exam conditions
    All remote exams must take place in a controlled environment. Training Qualifications UK (TQUK) defines a controlled environment as a quiet, appropriate space conducive to the undertaking of a remotely invigilated exam. The environment must be:

  • populated only by you, the learner, and no other parties
  • well-lit to allow maximum webcam visibility
  • free from distractions that may cause you to divert your attention away from the computer screen or move outside of the webcam’s viewing range
  • free from notes and posters on the wall
  • free from noise
  • free from personal or sensitive material
  • free from visual or physical access to supporting materials (such as educational texts)
  • free from electronic devices, other than the computer used to undertake the exam. The space, as described above, must meet these requirements throughout the entire duration of the exam. If the exam conditions requirements are not met, the exam may be voided. If, for any reason, you are unable to undertake the exam in a space that meets these requirements, you should inform your training provider/recognised centre at the earliest opportunity and arrange your exam at a time when these conditions can be met. You must have a desktop or laptop computer that is equipped with a working webcam, a stable internet connection, and the Google Chrome web browser (available here).
  • Requirements and guidance for materials:
    The following relates to materials within the controlled environment and must be followed to ensure compliance:

  • Mobile phones and electronic devices, except for the computer you are using to undertake the exam, must be switched off and stored in an inaccessible location.
  • Smartwatches and other wearable technological devices must be switched off and removed.
  • Headphones must not be worn.
  • Water must be stored in a clear glass or a clear bottle with the labels removed. No other food or drink is permitted.
  • Second monitors are not permitted.
  • Identification must be clearly presented to the camera at the start of an exam. If identification is not provided, or is unclear, at the start of the exam, this will result in the exam being voided.
  • A room sweep must be completed at the start of an exam. If a room sweep is not completed, the exam will be voided.
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  • This depends on your learning pace and individual circumstances. This functional skills qualification has 55 guided learning hours (GLH).

    Need Help? Chat with us