Skills For Life

Skills for Life is a national strategy for improving the English and Maths skills of adults (aged 16 and over). It includes pre-entry level up to and including Level 2.

The qualifications can be taken full or part time. The Skills for Life qualification levels can be compared to National Curriculum, Key Skill and National Qualification levels.

To read more about what is involved in Skills for Life Qualifications and see how they map to the National Framework (see below) Skills for Life qualifications can be completed in English and Maths at five different levels - up to Level 2

Learners often follow the qualifications whilst completing another qualification with their Training Provider or College. At the start of their studies an initial assessment is carried out to determine which level the learner is currently working at - the aim should then be to move up to the next level.

Assessment for the Skills for Life qualification is carried out through a 'National Test'. This is a multiple choice test. You can even have a go at one of the tests on the read-write-plus website.

If you become a learner on a Skills for Life programme you can also use Acorn Training's Exam Practice system which includes in depth feedback and answer workings.

The table below shows how the qualifications map to other aspects of the National Framework:

The Skills for Life national tests at Levels 1 and 2 are the same as those in the corresponding Key Skills qualifications. Key Skills qualifications are completed as part of Apprenticeships. Key Skills also include a written portfolio element as well as the national test - the portfolio element is not included in the Skills for Life qualifications.

Click here to view Skills for Life Providers