Engaging learners enrolled on functional skills and GCSE resit courses, after disappointing results first time round, is arguably one of the most difficult tasks facing tutors in further education.
While highly motivated and capable in their vocational field of study, learners can often see functional skills assessments as insurmountable impediments to success. Those on apprenticeships and traineeships struggle to envisage how English and maths assessments support their specialist skill sets and can easily become disillusioned before even enrolling on a course.
Similarly, college students undertaking GCSE resits may have already faced exam disappointment, be lacking in confidence due to an extended break from academic life or have concerns about fitting in a study schedule around family and life commitments.
