AEB funding for GCSE and Level 2 Functional Skills

Yes they can undertake a GCSE under the AEB legal entitlement for fully funded English and maths, up to and including level 2, for individuals aged 19 and over, who have not previously attained a GCSE grade 4 (C), or higher.

HTH

That's great Martin - many thanks. I was aware of the wording in the funding rules, but didn't know if there was an equivalence issue.

There was quite a bit of argle-bargle about this a fortnight ago, when PMO sent out a bunch of letters to providers saying it wasn't allowed and should switch off funding for GCSE learners. They *very* quickly rowed back on it when literally everyone said "this is definitely not how it works" so we're now certain that it's fine :)

Sorry to ask but is this still relevant today.  The wording in the funding rules mentions comparable qualifications and I have always understood that Functional Skills level 2 is equivalent for a GCSE grade 4.

Hi Natalie

The level is the same, and it is accepted in some contexts as an alternative qualification, but my understanding is that the situation outlined above remains unchanged. Let's not forget that, when first proposed, Functional Skills qualifications were planned to be a *component* of GCSE.

I had a really quick response from the DfE ,  

A Functional Skill is equivalent to a GCSE level 4.  If you assess this learner and determine their current level is lower than a grade 4 (even if they have previously achieved a GCSE or equivalent qualification in English and maths) then they are eligible for funding.

A Learner must not just resit the exam but undertake the learning as well.