What does my Current Level mean?

What is the Current Level Calculation Rationale?

Current level is the name given to the level of attainment a learner is currently at during one of our functional skills courses. This level is calculated from the very first initial assessment and updates each and every time a learner completes a test/exam attempt. The way in which our level system works is unique as it has been built using a complex algorithm that factors in the level of difficulty of each question type and applies an appropriate weighting to each one.

So it isn’t just a case of a percentage score being converted into a level; the calculation takes into account the ability of a student to answer more difficult question types whilst adjusting the score less severely for potential gaps in knowledge on easier topic areas. The result is learners will be enrolled onto the correct course for their level of ability, then the course will ensure the gaps in knowledge are filled.

Level 2:

If you score above 1.5 in the Initial Assessment, you should enrol in the Level 2 course for the relevant subject. As you progress through the course, consistently high scores will increase your level. Once your level reaches 2.5 or higher, you may be ready to sit for the exam and should begin the booking process.

Note: If you enrol in a Level 2 course without completing the Initial Assessment, you will be assigned an initial level of 1.5.

Level 1:

If you score above 0.9 but below 1.5 in the Initial Assessment, you should enrol in the Level 1 course for the relevant subject. As you complete the course, consistently high scores will increase your level. Once your level reaches 1.5 or higher, you may be ready to sit for the exam and should begin the booking process.

Note: If you enrol in a Level 1 course without completing the Initial Assessment, you will be assigned an initial level of 0.5.

Entry Level 3:

If you score above 0.6 but below 0.9 in the Initial Assessment, you should enrol in the Entry Level 3 course for the relevant subject. We recommend reaching out to your Teacher, Tutor or Training provider for more information and assistance if necessary. As you complete the course, consistently high scores will increase your level. Once your level reaches 0.9 or higher, you may be ready to sit for the exam and should begin the booking process.

Note: If you enrol in a Entry Level 3 course without completing the Initial Assessment, you will be assigned an initial level of 0.5.

Entry Level 2:

If you score above 0.3 but below 0.6 in the Initial Assessment, we suggest you are at the level for the Entry Level 2 qualification. We recommend reaching out to your Teacher, Tutor or Training provider for more information and assistance if necessary. As you complete the course, consistently high scores will increase your level. Once your level reaches 0.9 or higher, you may be ready to sit for the exam and should begin the booking process.

Note: If you enrol in a Entry Level 2 course without completing the Initial Assessment, you will be assigned an initial level of 0.3.

Entry Level 1:

If you score above 0 but below 0.3 in the Initial Assessment, we suggest you are at the level for the Entry Level 1 qualification. We recommend reaching out to your Teacher, Tutor or Training provider for more information and assistance if necessary. As you complete the course, consistently high scores will increase your level. Once your level reaches 0.9 or higher, you may be ready to sit for the exam and should begin the booking process.

Note: If you enrol in a Entry Level 1 course without completing the Initial Assessment, you will be assigned an initial level of 0.1.

FAQs

Are the functional skills initial assessments free for everyone to use?

Yes, there is no catch, they are free for everyone to use.

Is the reformed functional skills English initial assessment suitable for level 1 learners?

Yes, the initial assessment will determine which level a learner is at and is suitable for those who think they may want to start at level 1.

Can I do a functional skills maths initial assessment?

Yes, our maths initial assessment covers level 1 and level 2.

What are the costs for the full service for training providers?

Please email management@passfunctionalskills.co.uk and the team will provide a quote for your specific requirements. We offer a complete service from initial assessments, to full functional skills courses as well as Ofqual regulated exams. We also provide physical resources and have expert tutors.

Do you also provide the Ofqual regulated exams?

Yes, you can book the exams from the Pass Functional Skills website. https://passfunctionalskills.co.uk/

What are the differences between functional skills initial assessments and Subject Knowledge Assessments?

Diagnostic tests refers to both initial assessments and Subject Knowledge Assessments. Both types of assessments diagnose something. The initial assessment diagnoses the level a learner is at and the Subject Knowledge Assessment diagnoses the topics within that level, that they need to work on.

If I achieve a level 1 in the initial assessment, does it mean I have to take the level 1 course?

Not if you take the qualification through our service, you have the freedom to choose.

Why is your initial assessment free to use when others charge?

We offer more free functional skills materials than any other service provider. We believe in giving learners access to as much free resources as possible which is why we have free course options and free initial assessments.

Are your initial assessments different to the BKSB functional skills initial assessment?

Yes our assessments are different to the BKSB functional skills initial assessment. We have our own proprietary technology that is based on a complex algorithm that we believe gives the most accurate reflection of a leaners current level. You can also use our diagnostic tests for recognition of prior learning.

Are the initial assessments relevant to all exam boards?

Yes, whether you are looking for a Pearson functional skills initial assessment or a City and Guilds functional skills initial assessment, our initial assessments are relevant to all functional skills exam boards.