Reformed maths and English Functional Skills qualifications will now be introduced in 2019 – a year later than originally intended.

The DfE has announced that its commitment to reforming Functional Skills to the highest standards and to meet employers’ needs will take longer than anticipated.  The government wants to “take the time to consider fully the recommendations made by the sector and how maths and English fit into the wider post-16 skills landscape”.

The Education and Training Foundation will continue to lead the Functional Skills Reform Programme.

Further consultations are expected in the coming months.