English and Maths

At Carlisle College, we believe strong English and maths skills are essential for success in education, employment and everyday life.

Whether you're continuing your studies, preparing for an apprenticeship, or building skills for your future career, our dedicated English and Maths team will support you every step of the way.

Why English and Maths Matter

English and maths form a vital part of every learner’s programme up to the age of 18. They develop skills that employers and universities look for, including communication, problem-solving, analysis and numeracy.

If you join us without a grade 4 or above in English and/or maths, you will study a qualification alongside your main course. This ensures every learner has the opportunity to progress with confidence.

GCSE English Language

Focus on reading, writing and spoken communication
Develops analytical and critical thinking skills
100% exam-based assessment
Designed for learners aiming to achieve grade 4 or above

Functional Skills English (Entry 1 – Level 1)

Practical reading, writing and speaking skills
Everyday English for work, life and learning
Assessment includes tasks such as emails, presentations and reading exercises

How We Place Learners on the Right Course

All students complete an initial assessment to ensure they start at the correct level. Our approach is based on the principle of “right learner, right level, first time”, ensuring every learner is challenged appropriately and supported to be successful.

Placement considers:

Previous qualifications
Diagnostic assessment
Learner confidence and readiness
Tutor recommendation

How We Teach

Our lessons are designed to be engaging, supportive and focused on progress. We use a range of teaching strategies to meet individual needs, including:

Small, focused teaching groups
Interactive and applied learning
Digital tools such as BKSB, Century or other online platforms.
Regular feedback and progress checks
Access to revision workshops and support sessions

GCSE Mathematics

Covers number, algebra, geometry, statistics and problem-solving
Builds real-world numeracy and reasoning
100% exam-based assessment
Suitable for learners working towards grade 4 or above

Functional Skills Maths (Entry 1 – Level 1)

Practical numeracy skills used in real situations
Accessible progression route towards GCSE
Problem-solving focused assessments

Learner Support

We provide a range of support to help learners feel confident and ready for success:

Additional Learning Support (ALS) for those with SEND
Exam Access Arrangements where appropriate
One-to-one support and small-group interventions
Study skills and revision workshops
Pastoral support through tutors and the wider college team

Attendance and Expectations

To succeed in English and maths, learners must:

Maintain high attendance and punctuality
Participate fully in lessons
Complete classwork, homework and revision activities
Take responsibility for their progress

Our team works closely with curriculum departments, tutors and parents/carers to support learners to stay engaged and on track.

CENTURY at Carlisle College

CENTURY is an award-winning, AI-powered learning platform that supports our students in developing strong English and maths skills through personalised, adaptive learning. It combines artificial intelligence, neuroscience and learning science to create tailored pathways that help every learner make progress at the right pace for them. Used by schools and colleges in over 70 countries, CENTURY provides thousands of high-quality learning resources, self-marking questions and interactive activities designed to improve understanding and build confidence. How CENTURY Supports Our Learners:

Personalised Learning

CENTURY identifies each student’s strengths, gaps in knowledge and misconceptions, then automatically adapts the learning journey to meet their needs. This means English and maths support is always targeted, relevant and responsive.

Assessment & Instant Feedback

Students receive immediate feedback on their work through automated marking, helping them track their own progress while reducing teacher workload.

Engaging, Curriculum-Aligned Content

The platform includes thousands of videos, quizzes and practice tasks aligned to the UK national curriculum, supporting GCSE and Functional Skills pathways.

Boosting Progress in English & Maths

Independent research and early FE sector findings show CENTURY can improve learner outcomes, enhance retention of knowledge, and strengthen core English and maths skills.

Why We Use CENTURY at Carlisle College

Supports learners working towards GCSE English & Maths
Provides personalised pathways for Functional Skills programmes
Encourages independent learning and builds confidence
Helps students prepare effectively for exams
Gives teachers the data they need to support every individual

CENTURY is a key part of our digital learning strategy and plays a vital role in helping our students “Attend, Engage, Achieve” across all English and maths programmes.

English Revision Sources

1. BBC Bitesize – English

Clear explanations, videos and quizzes
Covers GCSE English Language & Literature
Great for revising key skills like analysis, structure, and writing techniques https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize

2. Mr Bruff (YouTube)

Popular English Language & Literature tutorials
Helpful exam tips, model answers, and technique breakdowns Search “Mr Bruff” on YouTube

3. GCSE English Revision (Edexcel)

Past papers, mark schemes and exam guidance Via awarding body websites

Functional Skills (English and Maths)

1. Functional Skills Maths & English (Maths Made Easy)

Revision materials, worksheets and practice questions https://mathsmadeeasy.co.uk/functional-skills/

2. Pass Functional Skills

Practice papers, revision guides and topic videos https://www.passfunctionalskills.co.uk

Maths Revision Sources

1. Corbett Maths

Videos, worksheets, practice questions
Excellent for step-by-step explanations https://www.corbettmaths.com

2. Maths Genie

Fully free GCSE maths revision
Topic-based videos, exam questions and model answers https://www.mathsgenie.co.uk

3. BBC Bitesize – Maths

Topic explanations, videos and quick quizzes
Covers GCSE content clearly and accessibly https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize

Why are English and Maths Important?

English and Maths are an important part of your study programme at college. Whether you're aiming to achieve a GCSE grade 4, working on Functional Skills, or simply building confidence, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

These subjects open doors to apprenticeships, higher-level courses, and better job opportunities, and they help you develop essential skills you’ll use in everyday life.

Call: 01228 822 700

Email: info@carlisle.ac.uk

Do I have to study English and Maths at college?

Yes - if you haven’t yet achieved a grade 4/C in GCSE English or Maths. It’s part of your study programme, and it’s a requirement from the government. Achieving these qualifications gives you more options after college.

What course will I be put on?

This depends on your previous results:

Grade 3 - GCSE English Language and/or GCSE Maths
Below grade 3 - Functional Skills English and/or Maths (Entry Level to Level 2) We place you on the course that best supports your progress.

How many English & Maths lessons will I have each week?

You’ll have timetabled lessons each week alongside your main course. The number of sessions depends on whether you're doing GCSE or Functional Skills.

What are lessons like?

Lessons are designed to be engaging, supportive, and linked to real life. You’ll learn skills through a mix of class activities, independent work, online learning, and exam preparation.

How will the college help me if I find the work difficult?

We offer a range of support, including:

Small-group sessions
One-to-one help
Extra resources on Teams and other platforms
Revision workshops Just speak to your teacher - they’re here to help.

Why is attendance so important?

Good attendance is the biggest factor in success. Missing even one lesson can make it harder to keep up. We expect excellent attendance so you can achieve the best results possible.

What if I already have a grade 4 or above?

If you’ve already achieved a grade 4/C in English and/or Maths, you won’t need to study that subject again unless it’s required for your chosen course.

When will I sit the exams?

GCSE exams take place in May/June. Functional Skills exams run throughout the year, and your teacher will enter you when you’re ready.

Who do I speak to if I have concerns or need help?

Your English or Maths teacher is the first point of contact, but you can also talk to your Progress Coach or your main programme tutor. We’re all here to support you.

Phone: 01228 822 700