What is the purpose of this qualification?
The purpose of this qualification is to develop learners’ spoken English skills to communicate effectively in a range of familiar and unfamiliar contexts. It enables learners to share information, ideas and opinions clearly and supports the appropriate use of verbal and non‑verbal strategies in a variety of spoken exchanges.
What skills, knowledge, or understanding does this qualification develop?
The aims and objectives of the qualification are to enable learners to develop confidence and competence in the application of essential English speaking and listening skills, supporting progression to higher-level study, training or employment.
The objectives of this qualification are to enable learners to:
• contribute relevant ideas and information in a range of discussion situatuons
• present opinions and information clearly, logically, and appropriately for the audience and situation
• listen actively and identify key information from different speakers and sources
• respond appropriately to questions, instructions and explanations in both one‑to‑one and group contexts
• use effective verbal and non‑verbal strategies, such as turn‑taking, questioning and clarifying, to support understanding and communication
Which sector does this qualification support?
This qualification is designed to help learners to develop the speaking and listening skills needed in a wide range of job roles.
What are the English and maths progression options?
On completion of this qualification, learners will be equipped with an introductory set of knowledge and skills in speaking and listening. They will be able to take part in discussions, communicate information and ideas clearly, listen and respond appropriately to others, and adapt their speech to suit different audiences and situations.
Successful completion of the Level 1 Award In English – Speaking and Listening could allow learners to progress onto:
• Functional Skills Qualifications in English at Level 2
• GCSE English
• other qualifications from the suite of English skills qualifications offered by Gateway Qualifications
• further study, including a Gateway Qualifications vocational qualification
A full in-depth careers information, advice and guidance session should be completed for learners before, during and after completion of learning, finding them the most appropriate progression pathways unique to them and based on their ability and aspirations.
Progression & entry requirements
There are no specific prior skills/knowledge learners must have for this qualification, however, learners should have a basic proficiency in the English language.
Centres must ensure that learners have the correct information and advice when selecting qualifications to ensure that the qualification will meet their needs.
Centres must ensure that this qualification suits the age and abilities of their learners by ensuring that learners can meet the relevant literacy and digital requirements of the qualification.
Learners enrolled on this qualification should not undertake another qualification at the same level with a similar title or content, as this could impact funding eligibility due to duplicated learning.
Centres are responsible for registering learners via the Gateway Qualifications’ online registration portal Quartz. Learner registration guidance is available on our website, Registering learners.
