Launching our new Functional Skills delivery model: everything you need to know

Celebrating a brand new partnership

For those amongst your learners who are required to complete Functional Skills courses as part of their learning programmes, tend wanted to ensure that the process was as straightforward as possible.

That’s why we’re excited to introduce a refreshed, streamlined approach to English and Maths delivery within our apprenticeships.

With our new, early focus Functional Skills model, every apprentice begins building their English and Maths skills from Week One, supported by a structured learning plan through our new partnership with Pass Functional Skills (PASS), a leading English and Maths platform.

What’s New?

This new approach provides front-loaded learning for timely progress. All apprentices now begin Functional Skills immediately after onboarding, with a 12–24-week programme length depending on their current level and individual needs.

This means that your learners can get their Functional Skills requirements completed ASAP, clearing the path for their role-relevant apprenticeship curriculum.

Our Collaboration with Pass Functional Skills (PASS)

tend is proud to have partnered with Pass Functional Skills (PASS), a leading digital Functional Skills provider offering:

• Engaging, video-based learning
• Step-by-step walkthroughs
• Instant-marked practice questions with detailed feedback
• Full mock exams
• Progress dashboards
• Advanced accessibility features

The PASS platform aligns with TQUK exam requirements, supporting the development of practical Maths, reading, writing, and communication skills essential for life and work.

Every learner receives a tailored learning plan created via the PASS platform’s Subject Knowledge Assessment, which identifies a learner’s gaps and maps out a sequenced learning journey.

Continuous specialist support

As well as benefitting from PASS, learners will continue to receive guidance throughout their programme:

• Development Coaches will monitor progress, review PASS results, and provide additional support if needed
• Functional Skills Leads will ensure Development Coaches have the most up-to-date and specialist knowledge for guiding their learners in ways that are tailored to their job roles. They will also run optional live workshops on MS Teams.
• Our ASPIRE team will support with accessible and inclusive learning for those with additional learning needs.

What this means for Employers like you, is that Functional Skills is taken care of efficiently, and early on in your learners’ programmes.

How can you support?

Just as you support your apprentice with the wider elements of their programme, you can also play an important role in their Functional Skills progress by regularly discussing their progress, and encouraging them to stay on track with their targets.

While English and Maths aren’t part of the Off-the-Job training requirements, you might want to consider giving your apprentice some dedicated Functional Skills study time each week, and time to attend group workshops, supporting them to stay on top of their studies.

The tend difference

Making the lives of learners and employers easier during the apprenticeship process is what tend is all about. Functional Skills can feel like a daunting and time-consuming task for apprentices. By introducing these new elements, we aim to take to remove what may have seemed like hurdles to clear before, and clear the path for pain-free, professional training.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is progress monitored?

Our specialist Functional Skills Leads will provide Development Coaches with regular progress reports, allowing for timely intervention should additional support be needed. Apprentices will upload their PASS progress onto Aptem, ensuring their work is visible to Development Coaches, mentors and managers.

What are the apprenticeship English and Maths requirements?

Aged 16–18: If the apprentice does not already hold a Level 2 qualification (GCSE grade 4/C or above) in English and Maths, they must work towards achieving these Functional Skills qualifications as part of their apprenticeship.

Aged 19+: English and Maths remain important for progression, but completing Functional Skills is not always mandatory to complete the apprenticeship. This will be agreed between the employer, training provider, and learner at the start of the programme.

How is English and Maths supported throughout the apprenticeship?

Although Functional Skills learning is now front-loaded, English and Maths continue to be woven throughout the entire apprenticeship, so learners can apply their skills confidently in real workplace contexts.

This means that English and Maths are not just learned in isolation, but are actively connected to real tasks in healthcare, childcare, business support and leadership roles.

Across the apprenticeship journey, coaches incorporate skills such as:

• Numeracy: interpreting charts; calculating medication; understanding percentages and measures in care contexts.
• Literacy: report and email writing; keeping clear and concise records; reading and interpreting care plans, policies and guidelines; engaging in professional discussions.

Ready to upskill your staff? Reach out to the tend team today. Call 01753 596 004 or hit the button below.