Introducing: your new Maths & English Functional Skills learning journey

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Making Maths and English a breeze

tend understands that completing Maths and/or English Functional Skills as part of your apprenticeship can seem like a daunting task to begin with; not to mention time consuming. 

That’s why we’re excited to share a new, improved way for you to achieve.

Our new partnership with Pass Functional Skills (PASS) will give you access to a clear learning programme and high-quality resources to help you achieve your goals.

Getting started early

From your very first week on programme, you’ll begin your Maths and English journey, building strong foundations early on.

Depending on your starting level and individual needs, your Functional Skills learning will take place over 12 to 24 weeks. We’ll help to determine your starting point, and place you on the right pathway, ensuring you receive the level of support you need.

Learning with PASS: your personalised pathway

You’ll be completing your Functional Skills learning through the Pass Functional Skills (PASS) online platform.

Here’s what you’ll get with your premium account:

• A personalised learning plan based on your starting point
• Short, engaging video lessons
• Step-by-step explanations
• Practice questions that give you instant feedback
• Full mock exams with detailed feedback
• Exam-ready checklists

You will upload your evidence of learning to Aptem, to ensure your course progress remains on track.

Already started your apprenticeship?

Don’t worry! Any progress you have already made with your functional skills will be recognised when you complete your PASS initial assessments, and receive your personal learning plan.

tend provides support throughout

Even though much of your Functional Skills is self-directed, you will always have support available.

For example:

• Your Development Coach will review your PASS progress, provide guidance, help you set realistic goals, and support you to prepare for your final assessments.
• Our specialists Maths and English Leads support your Development Coach with expert guidance, provide additional resources if needed, and run optional topic specific group workshops on MS Teams.

If you have additional learning needs, our ASPIRE Team is here to help make your learning experience accessible, inclusive, and positive.

Recommended learning time each week

To get the most out of your Functional Skills, we recommend at least 4 hours per week of Maths and/or English learning through PASS. This will depend on how many items are in your individual learning plan.

Maths and English beyond Functional Skills

Gaining an extra qualification isn’t the only benefit! You’ll learn valuable knowledges that will support you in your apprenticeship and career progression. This includes skills such as:

• Planning and writing assignments, reports and emails.
• Understanding detailed documents
• Participating confidently in discussions
• Analysing information or data related to your role
• Carrying out numeracy-based job-specific tasks

Your Development Coach will help you apply your learning to your real-world work responsibilities so you can grow in confidence and capability.

What you can do to stay on track

Here are some simple habits to help you succeed when completing a Functional Skills qualification as part of your apprenticeship:

• Create a revision timetable – little and often works best! PASS works well on mobile devices too
• Log into PASS each week and complete your recommended modules
• Upload your results into Aptem and speak to your coach if you’re unsure about anything
• Celebrate your progress!

Frequently Asked Questions

When do I start Functional Skills?

Right after enrolling. You’ll be guided through how to set up your PASS account and get started straight away.

What if I find something difficult?

Speak to your coach – they can provide additional resources, help you to create an action plan, and book you onto additional workshops.

Do I have to pass Functional Skills?

If you’re aged 16–18 or don’t have your GCSE grade 4/C in maths or English, or 19+ and it’s part of your apprenticeship agreement with your employer, then yes; you’ll be fully supported to achieve this.

Have further questions about PASS and Functional Skills? Reach out to our team today. Call 01753 596 004 or hit the button below.