Education & Employment Department

Maths Levels 1 & 2

Why should I do the course?

We all use numeracy skills in many aspects of study, work and everyday life.

You will always need to be able to handle numbers and make accurate calculations, whether in study, work or everyday life. You will need to handle money, work out the cost of projects such as holidays, understand and interpret instructions, tables and charts, or simply help your children or others with Maths.

Studying Adult Numeracy will not only improve your skills in general, but help you to achieve a formal qualification at a level equivalent to GCSE.

What will I be studying?

Adult Numeracy is not just about doing sums - it's about using maths in practical situations that are relevant to your work or leisure pursuits. For example, you may have learnt maths at school, college or work but numeracy applies this to the real-life situations that many people find themselves in.

This course is available at Levels 1 & 2. You will receive guidance and support on which level is the most appropriate for you.

The course will cover a variety of skills:

• Handling large numbers, and be confident in adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing - for those times when there's no calculator to hand.
• Calculating using fractions, percentages and decimals, so you can calculate sale discounts, increases in your bills and handling money generally.
• Measuring perimeters and areas, work 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.

How long will the course last?

Each session lasts for 2-3 hours. You will be enrolled onto the course for a term, at the end of which your progress will be reviewed.

What are the classes like?

Classes are usually small with approximately 10 - 12 learners all working in a friendly relaxed environment.

What next?

Attainment of Numeracy qualification will help you in any future programme of study that you may be considering. Employers consider these skills to be essential in the workplace so achievement of a level 1/2 qualification will give you an advantage in the job market. For individuals wishing to advance into Higher Education, level 2 is accepted for entry onto a range of courses.

Are there any entry requirements?

Numeracy qualifications are open to all who do not yet have an equivalent Level 2 qualification, but the level at which you study will be determined at the initial assessment stage.

How will I be assessed?

Your tutor will ensure you learn what is most appropriate to your situation and needs. This will be recorded in an individual learning plan. Qualifications are obtained through sitting the national test in Adult Numeracy at levels 1 or 2.

How much will it cost?

There is no fee for Adult Numeracy courses up to and including Level 2.