This course is designed to help learners successfully prepare for and pass the Level 2 Functional Skills Maths qualification by answering two key questions:
- How do I work it out?
- Why do I do it that way?
The guide uses plain English explanations, worked examples, visual aids, memory techniques, and real-world print and packaging industry examples to make mathematical concepts easier to understand and apply.
Topics Covered
The course covers all the key mathematical knowledge and skills required for Functional Skills Level 2, including:
- Multiplication and division
- Large number division using the chunking method
- Addition and subtraction
- Fractions and simplifying fractions
- Multiplying fractions by whole numbers
- Decimals and converting fractions to decimals
- Multiplying decimals to three decimal places
- Percentages
- Ratio
- Mean, median, mode and range
- Area, perimeter and volume
- Using Pi (π) to calculate the area of circles
- Weight calculations using volume and density
- Metric conversions
- Speed, distance and time
- Scale drawings and tolerances
- Waste calculations, costing and estimating
- Scatter graphs and correlation
- Angles
- BIDMAS and indices
- Probability
Learning Approach
Each topic follows a consistent structure:
- Clear explanation of the mathematical concept
- Step-by-step worked examples
- Explanation of why each step is required
- Everyday examples to aid understanding
- Print and packaging workplace applications
- Memory aids and revision techniques
- Self-assessment checklists
- Practice questions to test understanding
Industry Relevance
A key feature of the course is its direct connection to the print and packaging industry. Learners see how maths is used in real workplace situations such as:
- Estimating print runs
- Calculating waste and efficiency rates
- Mixing inks using ratios
- Measuring materials and tolerances
- Determining pallet weights
- Planning production schedules
- Calculating unit costs and job costs
- Monitoring quality and defect rates
- Interpreting technical drawings and packaging specifications
Learning Outcomes
By completing this course, learners will be able to:
- Apply number skills confidently to solve real-world problems.
- Use fractions, decimals, percentages and ratios accurately.
- Perform calculations involving measurement, geometry and statistics.
- Interpret and analyse workplace data.
- Solve problems using appropriate mathematical methods.
- Check the accuracy and reasonableness of answers through estimation.
- Understand how maths supports quality, efficiency and decision-making in the workplace.
Course Benefits
This course helps learners to:
- Build confidence in maths.
- Understand not only how to complete calculations but why methods work.
- Develop practical problem-solving skills.
- Prepare effectively for the Functional Skills Level 2 Maths examination.
- Transfer mathematical skills directly into workplace tasks and everyday life.
Overall, this guide provides a comprehensive, learner-friendly approach to Functional Skills Level 2 Maths, combining mathematical understanding with practical workplace applications to support both exam success and occupational competence.