The definitive guide to English and maths at post-16

Post 16 English and maths - the definitive* guide

Choice of qualifications - there are three qualification routes for English and maths that are funded.

• 2015 spec GCSE graded 9-1 with grade 4 broadly equivalent to current C
• 2012 spec GCSE or iGCSE graded A*-G
• Functional Skills at all levels

For all learners with an existing grade E or below - open choice with Functional Skills expected to be chosen by the vast majority of learners.

For all apprenticeships and traineeships irrespective of existing grades - open choice with Functional Skills expected to be chosen by the vast majority of learners as exam windows for GCSE are so restricted at 2 per year.

For all adults 19+ irrespective of existing grades - open choice of Functional Skills or GCSE.

Learners on all courses of less than 150 hours - should study maths and English but qualification is not specified.

Learners starting now on all full time courses with an existing grade D are expected to follow 2012 GCSE. This is guidance, not a funding requirement.

Learners starting Sept 2015 on one year full time courses with an existing grade D are expected to follow 2012 GCSE.  This is a funding requirement.

Learners starting Sept 2015 on two year full time courses with an existing grade D are expected to follow 2015 GCSE. This is a funding requirement.

*until the next policy speech, election or Government interpretation.  Excludes specific course rules such as EYE and pathfinder apprenticeships.