Adult Functional Skills: Maths (Delivered Online)

Functional Maths is an approach to teaching maths that helps people to gain the most out of life, learning and work. Joining a Functional Maths class will give you the opportunity to improve your maths skills and to use these skills for practical problem-solving. It will build your confidence in how to use maths in all aspects of your everyday life. 

This course offers all the benefits of a live classroom environment without the need to travel. You can join your two-hour online class each week and, whilst you are welcome to attend campus to use our facilities, the only time you need to attend campus is to sit your end-of-course exams.

There are no formal entry requirements to access this course. 

All applicants will be asked to complete an assessment. The assessment will give us an indication of your current level and learning needs. Once the assessment is complete, we will discuss the most appropriate level and type of course for you and any offer of a place will be based on this.

The course will cover:

• Handling large numbers and calculation skills – for when there’s no calculator to hand
• Calculating using fractions, percentages and decimals – to help you handle money
• Measuring perimeters and areas, working out sizes of objects or spaces – for all those DIY and gardening jobs
• Reading and interpreting tables, graphs, charts and other numerical data – to ensure you do not get misled by statistics
• Calculating simple probability
• How to use a calculator and to check your answers

You will get the chance to apply these maths skills in a wide variety of situations and will gain experience in using maths when making decisions and explaining the reasons behind those decisions.

All of these skills will really help when it comes to applying for a job or for further study.

You must commit to attending your two-hour class each week during term time. At the end of the course, you will need to attend one of our Derby City campuses to complete your exams. 

You will also be expected to complete some independent study between classes (all resources are provided).

We recommend that you purchase ‘Maths The Basics’ 3rd Edition, Oxford University Press ISBN 978-1-382-00506-7, and a non-scientific calculator. (Tip – go for a reputable brand with easy-to-use buttons.) 

And don’t forget your stationery, a notebook and pens, pencils, ruler, protractor, and compass.

At the start of the course, you will be assessed to find out what you need to learn. You will then agree an individual learning plan appropriate to your situation and needs.

You will be assessed informally throughout the course to check on your progress. 

Qualifications are obtained by completing a written or online test.

What you do next is up to you:

• Use the skills you have learned in work, study or everyday life
• Gain a qualification
• Continue studying to improve your skills further

For a confidential chat about your own learning needs, please contact the Adult English and Maths Team on 01332 387465 or email: or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk