Resits in English and maths

Continuing English and maths after 16 if you did not get a grade 4. A condition of funding.

What it is

Students who have not achieved grade 4 in English or maths must continue studying the subject post-16 as a condition of their provider's funding.

Where it applies

Anyone starting post-16 study without a grade 4 in either subject.

How it works

Students with a grade 3 are normally required to resit the GCSE. Those with a grade 2 or below may take a Functional Skills qualification instead as a stepping stone.

There are exemptions and flexibilities for students with an EHCP or a learning difficulty assessment, applied case by case.

What you can ask for

Ask which route you are on and why — GCSE resit or Functional Skills. They lead to different places and the decision is often made without the student in the room.

Ask what teaching you will actually get. A resit with two hours a week and no change of approach rarely produces a different result.

If a specific learning difficulty is in play, ask about access arrangements and about the exemption route.

Where to get help

Your college's English and maths team, and the National Careers Service.