Digital Functional Skills

Digital skills are increasingly important for adult life and employment.

Students work towards Digital Functional Skills at Entry Level 3 or Level 1, developing practical skills which can support further education, employment and greater independence.

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Who is this course for?

This course is designed for young people who want to develop essential digital skills, build confidence using technology and become more independent in an increasingly digital world. 

No previous digital qualifications or experience are required. The course supports students in developing the knowledge and skills needed to use technology safely, confidently and effectively in everyday life, further education and future employment.

What will I learn?

Students will develop essential digital skills through practical, hands-on activities designed to build their confidence, independence and understanding of technology.

Students will have the opportunity to develop skills in:

• Using Digital Devices – Learning how to use computers, laptops and other digital devices, including managing settings and connecting to the internet.

• Managing Files and Information – Developing skills in creating, saving, organising and retrieving digital files and folders.

• Creating Digital Content – Learning how to create, edit and format documents, presentations and other digital materials.

• Online Communication – Developing confidence in using emails, messaging platforms and digital communication tools appropriately.

• Using the Internet – Learning how to search for information online, navigate websites and evaluate the reliability of digital information.

• Online Safety and Security – Understanding how to protect personal information, create secure passwords, recognise online risks and stay safe when using technology.

• Online Transactions – Exploring how to complete online forms, access digital services and understand safe online shopping and transactions.

• Problem-Solving with Technology – Developing skills in identifying and resolving common digital problems.

• Digital Skills for Everyday Life – Learning how technology can support independence, education, communication and future employment.

Alongside these practical skills, students will develop essential transferable skills, including organisation, communication, problem-solving, decision-making and independence, helping to prepare them for adulthood and an increasingly digital workplace.

After the course?

On successful completion of Entry Level 3, students may progress onto Level 1 Digital Functional Skills or other suitable digital qualifications.

Students completing Level 1 may progress onto further digital studies, vocational qualifications, GCSE courses or appropriate education and training pathways.

The course provides a foundation for students interested in exploring careers that involve digital technology, administration, customer service and other industries where computer skills are essential.

Students will also gain valuable lifelong skills, including accessing online services, communicating digitally and using technology safely and independently, supporting their confidence, employability and preparation for adulthood.

How will I be taught and assessed?

Students will be taught by specialist tutors through practical computer-based activities, demonstrations, interactive tasks and supported learning sessions. Teaching is adapted to meet individual learning needs, allowing students to develop their digital skills, confidence and independence at their own pace.

Learning will focus on real-life situations, giving students opportunities to practise using technology for everyday tasks, education and future employment.

Assessment is completed through an externally set, on-screen examination, consisting of knowledge-based questions and practical digital tasks.

• Entry Level 3: 90-minute assessment.

• Level 1: 105-minute assessment.

Both qualifications are graded Pass or Fail. Appropriate access arrangements and reasonable adjustments are provided where permitted, in accordance with Pearson's requirements, to support students in accessing their assessments.

Digital Functional Skills Entry Level 3 and Level 1 Specification