Introduction
These days, having good digital skills is not just a nice extra. It’s pretty much essential. Whether it’s for work, study or just day-to-day stuff, being confident with technology can really open doors. Digital functional skills qualifications are designed to help you build these skills through practical, real-life learning.

At Leeds Maths Tutor, we often recommend Pass Functional Skills to anyone thinking about taking on a digital functional skills qualification.

What Are Digital Functional Skills?
Digital functional skills are all about giving people the tools they need to use technology in a way that actually makes life easier. The idea is to help you feel more confident using devices and online tools, whether it’s for work or personal use.

Here’s what the courses usually cover:

  • Using Devices and Handling Information: Learn how to use digital devices and manage information safely and efficiently.

  • Creating and Editing: Get to grips with creating and editing things like documents, spreadsheets or presentations.

  • Communicating: Pick up tips for communicating clearly and appropriately, whether you’re sending emails or instant messages.

  • Transacting: Discover how to carry out everyday online tasks, like shopping, banking or accessing services safely.

  • Being Safe and Responsible Online: Understand how to protect your privacy and stay safe while using the internet.

These are all hands-on skills that come in useful not just at work, but in everyday life too. They can really help you feel more capable and less stressed when dealing with tech.

Levels of Digital Functional Skills
There are a couple of levels to choose from, depending on where you’re starting out:

  • Entry Level 3: A great starting point for beginners. You’ll cover the basics like using a word processor, buying things online and understanding digital risks.

  • Level 1: Builds on the basics with more handy skills, including creating and editing content, managing information and communicating effectively online.

Why Take a Digital Functional Skills Qualification?
So, why bother with a qualification like this? Here are a few good reasons:

  • Better Job Prospects: More and more employers expect solid digital skills. Having a qualification shows you’re serious about keeping your skills up to date.

  • Useful in Real Life: The course covers things you’ll actually use, whether that’s at work or at home.

  • A Step Towards Further Study: Thinking about studying IT or something similar later on? This gives you a solid foundation to build on.

  • More Confidence With Tech: As your skills grow, so does your confidence. Tasks that used to seem tricky will soon feel like second nature.

Conclusion
Whether you want to boost your CV, get more confident with everyday tech, or take a step towards further study, a digital functional skills qualification is a great choice. The focus is on practical, real-life skills, which can really help you feel more confident and capable in today’s digital world.