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Edexcel/Pearson Specification

Maths Functional Skills

Scheme of Work

Functional Skills Mathematics from Entry Level 3 to Level 2 with real-world applications and SEND adaptations.

Section 1

Intent, Implementation & Impact

Intent

  • Deliver a knowledge-rich curriculum adapted for SEND learners
  • Build confidence and independence through scaffolded learning
  • Ensure all learners access their full educational entitlement
  • Align with EHCP outcomes and Preparation for Adulthood pathways

Implementation

  • Differentiated resources and multi-sensory teaching approaches
  • Therapeutic integration within lessons to support regulation
  • Regular formative assessment to track progress against targets
  • Small group sizes with high staff-to-learner ratios

Impact

  • Measurable progress against EHCP outcomes each term
  • Accredited qualifications appropriate to learner ability
  • Improved confidence, resilience, and self-regulation
  • Readiness for next steps in education, training, or employment
Section 2

Curriculum Overview by Strand

Number

Independent Living
Read, write, order and compare whole numbers and decimals
Use the four operations with whole numbers and decimals
Calculate with fractions, percentages and ratios

Content: Whole numbers, decimals, fractions, percentages, ratios

Progression: From concrete manipulation → abstract calculation

Real-World: Shopping, wages, bills, budgeting

Measures

Employment
Use and compare units of measure including time, length, weight and capacity
Calculate with money in practical contexts
Read and interpret scales on measuring equipment

Content: Time, length, weight, capacity, money, temperature

Progression: From reading scales → calculating with measures

Real-World: Cooking, travel, DIY, healthcare

Shape & Space

Employment
Recognise and name common 2D and 3D shapes
Calculate perimeter, area and volume
Use scales and read maps and plans

Content: 2D/3D shapes, perimeter, area, volume, scales

Progression: From recognition → calculation and application

Real-World: Construction, decorating, navigation

Data Handling

Community
Collect, organise and represent data
Extract and interpret information from tables and charts
Calculate mean, median, mode and range

Content: Tables, charts, graphs, averages, probability

Progression: From reading data → analysing and interpreting

Real-World: Work reports, news, health data

Section 3

Assessment Cycle

CONTINUOUSCYCLE

Baseline

September

Formative

Ongoing

Half-Termly

Every 6 weeks

Summative

Termly

Annual Review

Annually

Baseline

Initial assessment to establish starting points and inform differentiation

Formative

Regular lesson-level checks for understanding and progress

Half-Termly

Assessed tasks to track progress against learning objectives and EHCP targets

Summative

End-of-term assessment with moderated grading and reporting

Annual Review

Contribution to EHCP Annual Review with evidence of progress

Section 4

Adaptations for SEND Learners

SEMH Support
  • Regulation breaks built into lesson plans
  • Therapeutic check-ins before and after sessions
  • Flexible seating and low-stimulus environments
  • Positive behaviour reinforcement strategies
ASC Adaptations
  • Visual timetables and structured routines
  • Clear, literal instructions with visual supports
  • Advance notice of changes to activities or routine
  • Reduced sensory demands in the learning environment
Communication Needs
  • Colourful Semantics and visual communication aids
  • Pre-teaching of key vocabulary before each topic
  • Simplified task instructions with visual scaffolding
  • Alternative recording methods where appropriate
Cognition & Learning
  • Scaffolded worksheets with graduated difficulty
  • Concrete-pictorial-abstract approach to new concepts
  • Repetition and retrieval practice built into every session
  • Extended processing time and chunked instructions
Section 5

Termly Scheme of Work

Section 7

Preparation for Adulthood Links

Employment

  • Workplace-relevant skills and knowledge
  • Problem-solving and independent thinking
  • Teamwork and collaboration skills
  • Accredited qualifications for career pathways

Independent Living

  • Real-world application of core skills
  • Managing personal information and data
  • Budgeting and financial literacy connections
  • Health and safety awareness

Community Participation

  • Understanding rights and responsibilities
  • Environmental and social awareness
  • Communication skills for community engagement
  • Active citizenship and participation

Health & Wellbeing

  • Self-regulation and emotional literacy
  • Physical wellbeing and healthy choices
  • Building resilience and self-confidence
  • Therapeutic progress and coping strategies

Questions About Our Maths Functional Skills?

Our maths team can discuss how we adapt functional skills for SEND learners with real-world applications.