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Following your feedback and a thorough review of our English and maths qualifications, we’ve made changes to our assessments, resources and practice papers. We’ve focused on three key areas: accessibility, clarity and support. More information about the changes can be found here.
About this qualification:
The purpose of the Functional Skills English Level 2 qualification is to prepare the learner for work, study and life. Learners who achieve this qualification will demonstrate the ability to read, write, speak, listen and communicate in English. Learners will be able to apply these skills effectively to a range of purposes in the workplace and in real life situations.
Who is it suitable for?
This qualification is suitable for learners studying the following:
• Apprenticeships • Traineeships • Study Programme • Alternative to GCSE • T-Levels • As a standalone qualification
Entry requirements:
There are no pre-entry requirements for this qualification and no minimum age requirement has been set for registration.
Qualification structure:
This qualification is assessed via 2 external assessments and one controlled assessment.
The external assessments cover the following components:
• Reading • Writing
The controlled assessment covers the following component:
• Speaking, Listening and Communicating
Online assessment:
Online assessment is available for this qualification, and live online assessments are now bookable. Please visit our Online Assessment page for further information.
Remote invigilation:
Learners are now able to complete online/onscreen external assessments at home using our remote invigilation solution. Also referred to as remote proctoring, remote invigilation allows a learner to be observed via audio and visual links when completing their online/onscreen external assessment at home.
NCFE offers a remote invigilation solution for all our Level 1 & 2 Functional Skills external assessments. Find out how to get approval here
NCFE has password protected the latest paper-based external assessment Sample Assessment Materials and Mark Scheme. You are now able to use these as current and valid mock assessments. To access the documents, you will need to log in.
Practice papers for our new-style assessments will be available as follows:
Practice paper assessment materials for English Reading and Writing at Levels 1 and 2 will be available on the website from 14 November 2025.
Chief Examiner reports
Chief Examiner Report (Reading) January 2025 (PDF | 272 KB)
Functional Skills English (Level 2) Resources (2025)
A comprehensive suite of resources including PowerPoint sessions with class activities and embedded videos, some with AI-powered presenters; learner workbooks support learning for sessions, and end-of-topic project workbooks consolidate that learning.
Functional Skills English (Level 2) Reading Learner Workbook and Answers (2025)
This workbook compliments and enhances our Level 2 English reading resources pack by providing a comprehensive overview of all subject content at this level.
Functional Skills English (Level 2) Writing Learner Workbook and Answers (2025)
This workbook compliments and enhances our Level 2 English writing resources pack by providing a comprehensive overview of all subject content at this level.
Functional Skills English (Level 2) Resources Bundle (2025)
A complete Level 2 English reading and writing resources bundle including the Level 2 resources pack and both the reading and writing learner workbooks and answer books at a discounted price.
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