Apprenticeship glossary

Functional Skills

What does Functional Skills mean?

English and maths qualifications focused on everyday, practical use. Some employers accept Functional Skills Level 2 instead of GCSEs.

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Guide Can you get an apprenticeship without GCSEs? Yes, you can. Here's which apprenticeships don't ask for grades, how English and maths work if you haven't passed them yet, and real examples from employers across the UK. Applies to: All of the UK
GCSE
The main qualifications taken at 16 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, graded 9 to 1 in England (where 4 is a standard pass). Level 2 apprenticeships are roughly the same level as GCSEs.
BTEC
A vocational qualification that many employers accept as an equivalent to GCSEs (at Level 2) or A levels (at Level 3). Sky, for example, accepts BTEC Level 2 instead of five GCSEs for some apprenticeships.
Level
How advanced an apprenticeship's qualification is. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland they run from Level 2 (like GCSEs) to Level 7 (like a master's degree). Scotland uses SCQF levels instead.
Further education (FE) college
A college for people aged 16 and over, offering vocational courses, A levels and apprenticeship training. Many apprentices study at an FE college on day or block release.
Game-based assessment
An online assessment presented as a series of short games, used by some employers instead of traditional tests. It measures things like problem-solving and memory.
Gateway
In England, the check near the end of an apprenticeship when your employer and training provider agree you're ready for your end-point assessment.

Definitions are our own plain-English summaries. Where we give figures, they come from the official sources listed on the linked guide or profile. Rules can change, so check the official source before you make decisions.