Please note: Assessment dates will be available in January 2026 to start the course in February. Complete an enquiry form to be added to the waiting list.
Course description
Accredited by NOCN
The course will equip you with the confidence to use English effectively in a variety of contexts. You will develop the following skills within the four main themes of literacy. You will work towards preparing to successfully pass your assessment and achieve your qualification on completion.
Entry Level 3
Reading
- Understanding texts: Identifying main points and details in various texts.
- Reading strategies: Using techniques like skimming and scanning to locate information.
- Text features: Recognising different text types and their purposes.
Writing
- Spelling and grammar: Using correct spelling, punctuation (e.g., full stops, commas), and grammar (e.g., subject-verb agreement, consistent tense usage).
- Writing structure: Organising writing with clear sentences and paragraphs.
- Text types: Writing different types of texts, such as narratives, instructions, and short explanations.
Speaking, listening, and communication
- Effective communication: Engaging in discussions, expressing opinions, and responding to others.
- Listening skills: Extracting information from spoken language and responding appropriately.
- Presentation skills: Communicating ideas clearly in both formal and informal contexts.
Exam process
- Speaking and listening – 15 minutes discussion.
- Reading – 45 minutes.
- Writing – 45 minutes.
Level 1 and 2
During your participation of the course you will develop the following:
- problem-solving skills by using language to address and resolve real-life issues.
- practical skills that you can apply in real-life situations.
- your reading comprehension skills by understanding and interpreting written texts accurately.
- your writing skills by constructing clear, concise, and coherent written communication.
- your spoken skills by articulating thoughts and ideas effectively in spoken language.
- your listening skills by actively listening and comprehending spoken information.
- Skills to engage in effective social interactions and build relationships.
Exam process
- Speaking and listening – 30 minutes for a group discussion and presentation.
- Reading – 45-60 minutes.
- Writing – 45-60 minutes.
Course level
Entry Level - Qualifications at Entry 1 to Entry 3 recognise basic knowledge and skills used in everyday life or in the workplace, and help to build confidence.
Level 1 - These qualifications are for learners who want to build on their basic skills or knowledge gained at Entry Level, or those who have gained some experience in the workplace.
Level 2 - These qualifications are for learners who have a good knowledge and understanding of the subject, have previously gained a Level 1 qualification or gained some experience through work. Level 2 courses will test and challenge your abilities through a variety of tasks and learning. Useful for many job roles these qualifications can help to increase performance and confidence in the workplace.
Who is this course for?
Entry Level 3 - Residents of Calderdale aged 19+ who have already achieved an Entry 2 qualification or have been assessed as working towards Entry 3. You will be ready to sit an exam to achieve a nationally recognised qualification.
Level 1 and Level 2 - Residents of Calderdale aged 19+ who have already achieved an Entry 3 qualification or have been assessed as working towards Level 1 or Level 2. You will be ready to sit an exam to achieve a nationally recognised qualification.
What do I need to bring?
- A pen – black or blue.
- Highlighter pens.
You will use Google Classroom throughout your course to view work from your lessons, receive messages from your tutor, and access online resources. You can access this on your smartphone, tablet, or laptop/computer. Your tutor will support you to log-in during your first lesson, and the Learner Support team is always on hand to help with any issues.
Assessment process
We want you to build on the skills you already use. During the assessment process you will complete an electronic or paper based initial assessment which will inform you about your current level of knowledge. You will then complete a diagnostic assessment which will inform you about the gaps in your current level of knowledge.
Finally, you will be asked to complete a piece of writing that will outline the gaps in your spelling, punctuation and grammar.
Your teacher will use the assessment results to plan lessons to support your progress.
Course dates and times
| Venue | Course code | Level | Start date | Length | Day and time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heath Campus | P00003B | Level 1 | 11th September 2025 | 36 weeks | Thursday 1pm to 4pm |
| Heath Campus | P00003C | Entry 3 | 9th September 2025 | 36 weeks | Tuesday 1pm to 4pm |
| Heath Campus | P00003D | Level 2 | 11th September 2025 | 36 weeks | Thursday 9am to 12noon |
| Todmorden College | P00020 | Entry 3/Level 1 | 3rd February 2026 | 18 weeks | Tuesday 9.30am to 12.30pm |