CO0299 Multiply - Lot 4 - August 2023

The purpose of this competition for Lot 4 "Full qualifications" is to invite bids to create and deliver new intensive and flexible Maths Functional Skills Qualification courses targeted at adults 19+ who have not previously attained a GCSE Grade 4/C or Level 2 maths qualification.

In line with the Department for Education definition, Functional Skills qualifications should enable the learner to develop confidence in using mathematics and provide a foundation for progression into employment or further technical education and develop skills for everyday life, where the skills gained can be applied to solve mathematical problems. The purpose of Level 1 and Level 2 Functional Skills Mathematics qualifications is to demonstrate a sound grasp of mathematical skills at the appropriate level and the ability to apply mathematical thinking effectively to solve problems successfully in the workplace and in other real-life situations.

Experience shows that skills providers in general commit 100% of their adult education budget in the Autumn term or risk reductions in subsequent years. ECC will encourage successful bidders to link with other Multiply providers from other Lots over time to encourage bite size learners from other Lots to progress to full qualifications throughout the year, particularly outside of the Autumn term.

Multiply in Essex is keen to fund additional Maths Functional Skills Qualifications at NVQ 1 and NVQ 2 under this Lot. This aims to help adults to progress in learning and employment.

Consideration would be given to funding additional Maths Functional Skills Qualifications at Entry Levels 1, 2 and 3, although bidders would need to provide sufficient evidence to demonstrate how these courses would generate exceptional impact and align with Multiply outcomes.

Functional Skills Qualifications should be accredited by a recognised national awarding body. To avoid duplication with Adult Education Budget (AEB) funding qualifications, these should begin throughout the academic year, rather than at the standard September start.

Expected duration of training courses is up to 55 guided learning hours.

Learners will be expected to sit an examination at the end of the course to quantify their learning and provide them with certification as proof of their new skills.

Examinations should be administered and certification awarded by a recognised, independent, national awarding body; the cost of which should be covered by the grant funding applied for.