The government has confirmed that Functional Skills will replace Adult Basic Skills from 01 August and become a mandatory component of all apprenticeship schemes from September.

The Functional Skills syllabus is more challenging than its predecessor: written questions are used in final assessments and Functional Skills learners are now required to show that they can apply and master skills in practical contexts. U-skills for Functional Skills has been enhanced and updated to deliver on the increased demands of the new standards rapidly and effectively.

New features in U-skills eLearning include video content and action time screens that direct learners to apply their new skills. As part of the blended model, -œmastery- of Functional Skills is fostered with online collaboration between candidates and Learning Support Managers through the ePortfolio system. Throughout the course of the training, learners produce an ePortfolio of personalised tasks and activities that is the focus for interaction with tutors and each other.

As the only solution for Functional Skills proven to succeed in the workplace, the MindLeaders model is already attracting attention. Pilots conducted with major employers Whitbread and Barchester Healthcare achieved first-time pass rates of over ninety percent and saw learners complete the new qualifications within eight to twelve weeks. MindLeaders is now in discussions to implement U-skills with several other UK employers running large apprenticeship schemes.