I received my result of Functional Skills Maths Level 2 on last week, and I am glad to share I am passed. Although most of the questions looked easy to me, I was not absolutely confident to say I would pass until the email arrived my inbox.
When I am seeking for jobs, I notice that many of the vacancies in public sectors or education institutes requires candidates meet GCSE grade 4 or 5 in English and Maths, or Functional Skills Level 2. It is a must for one to start a career as a nurse, teacher and bus driver. Local people working for career guidance or teaching in colleges explained it is the basic requirement for job applications and university enrolment. The UK Government introduced Functional Skills qualification in recent years to improve England's literacy, numeracy and Information and Communications Technology (ICT) skills. It explains why courses and exam are free of charge for local residents. To make it simple, there are five levels, from Pre-Level 1 to Level 2, while Level 2 is equivalent to GCSE grade 4 (a pass, or grade C in HKCEE, aka Overseas GCSE).
People say it is ironic to sit for the test with my education level, and it is a waste of money. I admit it is quite expensive, especially if I were a local resident now, it would be free of charge. I am not sure if I am willing to find a full-time job too, but obtaining a pass in Functional Skills Level 2 Maths means a lot to me.
As a dyslexic, I gave up Maths in my primary school days. I did not realise I was influenced by dyslexia at that time, but I asked for explanation desperately, while I was asked to recite steps. I have resisted to calculate since then. The Grade D on my HKCEE certificate is a luck and also a regret for me. It was the only grade D, but I am also glad that is not a fail. To me, sitting for Functional Skills Level 2 is my declaration of rejecting 'reciting steps' as the way to learn, but to prove my eagerness in understanding Maths worth.
Furthermore, I would also like to share my experiences with others who could not achieve grade 4 in GCSE Maths. Although I know Maths here in the UK is far much easier for students from Hong Kong, if it is the case, there is an alternative way for you to meet the requirement and continue receiving education, or pursuit your dream.
To conclude, I am proud to share that I passed Functional Skills Level 2 Maths! Not because of the qualification, but because of a tiny achievement in my relationship with Maths, and a demonstration of 'GCSE is not the only route'.
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