The Skillsfirst Level 2 Functional Skills Qualification in Mathematics has been developed for work, study and life. It gives learners the opportunity to demonstrate a sound grasp of mathematical skills at the appropriate level and the ability to apply mathematical thinking effectively to solve problems successfully in the workplace and in other real-life situations.

The qualification has been designed to enable the learner to gain in confidence and fluency, and to develop behaviours such as persistence and logical thinking as they apply mathematical tools and approaches.

The qualification has also been designed to:

• enable learners to demonstrate their ability in mathematical skills and their ability to apply these, through appropriate reasoning and decision making, to solve realistic problems of increasing complexity
• introduce learners to new areas of life and work so that they are exposed to concepts and problems which, while not of immediate concern, may be of value in later life
• enable learners to develop an appreciation of the role played by mathematics in the world of work and in life generally
• enable learners to use numbers and the number system, such as whole numbers, fractions, decimals and percentages, use common measures, shape and space and handle information and data.