Digital Functional Skills Courses
Navigating the digital world confidently is crucial for work, education, or everyday tasks. Digital Functional Skills are designed to equip learners with the practical knowledge they need to use technology effectively, safely, and responsibly.
By improving digital literacy, learners can enhance their employability, complete daily tasks more efficiently, and stay safe online. Our online Digital Functional Skills level 1 course starts with a short assessment that builds a learning plan around the areas you need most, then takes you through every topic and finishes with a full mock exam. If you have a question first, use the contact form and our team will help.
Who is the Digital Functional Skills course for?
Digital Functional Skills are particularly valuable for those looking to enter or progress in the workplace. Many jobs require employees to have a fundamental understanding of digital tools, whether for writing emails, using spreadsheets, or handling secure transactions. This course ensures that learners can perform these tasks competently while also understanding cybersecurity, data protection, and best practices for online safety.
This qualification is suitable for a wide range of learners, including:
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Individuals looking to improve their digital skills for employment
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Those seeking to gain confidence in using digital technology for daily tasks
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Students and adult learners who need to meet digital literacy requirements for further education or training
What do Digital Functional Skills qualifications cover?
Essential digital skills are just as important as literacy and numeracy. Digital Functional Skills qualifications help individuals develop confidence in using digital tools for tasks such as searching for information, creating and editing documents, managing online transactions, and communicating through various digital platforms.
Pass Functional Skills’ course covers a range of skills. These include using devices, searching for information, creating and editing content, communicating online, transacting safely, and understanding digital security. These competencies are crucial for both personal and professional digital literacy.
Digital Functional Skills Qualifications at Level 1
2026/27 Course Content & Learning Outcomes
Using Devices and Handling Information
- Conduct effective internet searches.
- Assess reliability and copyright of information.
- Organize files using hierarchical folder structures.
- Understand file size limitations and storage units (KB, MB, GB, TB).
Creating and Editing
- Use suitable applications for work and everyday tasks.
- Edit images and format content professionally.
- Process numeric data in spreadsheets using formulas.
Communicating
- Use email with attachments and formatting for various purposes.
- Send and manage online messages across different platforms.
- Manage privacy settings to control digital footprints.
Transacting
- Manage online account settings securely.
- Complete and submit online forms.
- Identify secure websites and recognize fraud indicators.
Being Safe and Responsible Online
- Understand data protection rights and privacy measures.
- Use strong passwords and cybersecurity practices.
- Avoid malware and recognize potential health risks from digital device use.
Digital Functional Skills Qualifications at Entry Level 3
2026/27 Course Content & Learning Outcomes
Using Devices and Handling Information
- Identify and use digital devices.
- Understand file types and save work correctly.
- Use simple search techniques to find information.
Creating and Editing
- Enter and edit text using a word processor.
- Insert simple graphics and format documents.
- Use basic spreadsheet functions.
Communicating
- Send and receive emails.
- Use online messaging platforms.
- Understand online safety measures.
Transacting
- Complete simple online forms.
- Understand secure transactions and website indicators.
Being Safe and Responsible Online
- Recognise risks like malware and phishing.
- Manage personal data and digital footprint.
- Follow health and safety guidelines for device usage.
Digital Functional Skills Past Papers 2026/27
Digital Functional Skills FAQs
What is the Digital Functional Skills level 1 course?
It’s an online course that prepares you for the Digital Functional Skills level 1 qualification. You start with a short assessment that builds a learning plan around your weaker areas, then work through topics that follow the official government curriculum: using devices, creating and editing, communicating, transacting, and staying safe online. It finishes with a full mock exam.
Can I book the Digital Functional Skills exam with you?
No, we offer the course but not the exam. The course prepares you for the level 1 exam, which you can sit with a college or exam centre that offers it.
Can I try the course before I buy it?
Yes. You can register for a free version of the Digital Functional Skills level 1 course to try it first.
What’s the difference between entry level 3 and level 1?
Entry level 3 covers the basics, such as using devices, saving files, simple searches, sending emails and completing online forms. Level 1 goes further, with spreadsheet formulas, privacy settings, spotting fraud and understanding data protection.
Is Digital Functional Skills level 1 equivalent to a GCSE?
No. Like other level 1 Functional Skills, it isn’t a GCSE equivalent. It’s a recognised qualification that shows employers and colleges you have the essential digital skills needed for work and study.