Having good literacy and numeracy skills are often a requirement for employers. It is also a government requirement that all college students who are yet to achieve a Grade 4 or above in maths and English continue to study these subjects alongside their college course.

We follow the National Council for Further Education (NCFE) and offer courses in Functional Skills (Entry Levels 1 and 2, and Levels 1, 2 and 3). When students join us at the beginning of an academic year, they undertake simple diagnostic tests and we use the results, together with their previous academic qualifications, to determine what level they have reached. Our aim is to support students to move up at least one level in the time they are with us. If students already have the required qualification, we support them to continue to improve their English and maths through project work.

Our tutors are nurturing and supportive, recognising that many students lack confidence in these core subjects. They make lessons enjoyable and interactive, making the most of the college premises and grounds to really bring these subjects to life and demonstrate their relevance for future use. We regularly hear our students say how much more enjoyable these lessons are at Lighthouse and how their confidence has improved.