English & Maths
Whether you’re a school leaver or returning to education as an adult, strong English and maths skills are essential – for further study, employment, and everyday life.
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English & maths at Bolton College
If you’re 16-18, English and maths are a key part of every Study Programme at the College, with dedicated lessons up to Level 2 and these vital skills embedded across the curriculum.
If you left school with a GCSE Grade 3 or below in English or maths, you’ll study towards a GCSE Grade 9–4 alongside your main course. Many of our students progress to university, where a minimum Grade 4 is often required – and some courses may ask for a Grade 5. Don’t worry: our Progress Tutors are here to support you in reaching your target grade.
After you apply and attend your course interview, we’ll assess your current level and place you on the most appropriate pathway to help you achieve your qualifications.
For Adult’s, English and maths open doors – whether you want to gain a qualification, improve your confidence, support your family, or move forward in your career.
We offer a wide range of courses for adults, from beginners to GCSE level. You can choose from:
- Functional Skills – ideal if you’re building confidence or returning to learning after a break
- GCSE English and maths
- Pre-GCSE courses – particularly helpful for speakers of other languages
- Bite-sized courses – focused on workplace and everyday English and maths skills
Whatever your goals, we’ll help you build the knowledge and confidence to achieve them.
Are you a...
...Adult

Looking for employment or a promotion at work?

Exploring your options for further study at Bolton College or university?

Eager to help your children with homework?
If the answer is yes then English and maths qualifications are vital!
We have a range of courses on offer so whatever your circumstances, ability or confidence level, we’ll tailor learning to help you get to where you want to be.
*Subject to terms and conditions, courses may be FREE up to the attainment of a grade 4 at GCSE, or equivalent grade C.
What do I do next?
Check out our English and Maths courses:
To get started, you’ll need to complete an informal ‘Welcome to’ session. This is a simple step to ensure we find the right course for you.
Please book your ‘Welcome to’ session in advance by visiting: English and maths Assessment
If you need assistance with booking or prefer to discuss your options with someone first, please call 01204 482 000.
What our students say
Sobia Soz
English GCSE
‘I achieved a grade 9 in my GCSE, the highest grade possible. I managed to do this whilst being a working mum and moving house. My tutor was so supportive and the revision notes I received from the class’s learner support worker were brilliant and an absolute saving grace.’
...Young Person
Didn’t quite get a 4 in GCSE English or Maths? Don’t worry – you’ll get the chance to boost your grades as part of your course! With the right support and a bit of confidence, you’ll be working towards that all important grade 4 or above, opening doors to your dream job, apprenticeship or next steps in education. So what do you need to do? Don’t worry when you attend Bolton College you will be placed in English and or maths classes alongside your chosen study programme, T Level or Apprenticeship! But why do you need English and maths? Well…

Higher levels of literacy and numeracy are linked to better health and wellbeing.

People with good GCSE grades in English and maths earn approximately £2,000 more per year than those who don’t!

Help in the classroom. Proficiency in these subjects improves your communication skills and allows you to understand money as well as the world around you.
What our students say
Mohammed Sheik
Maths GCSE
‘I was working at a Grade 1-2, but with hard work I’ve managed to achieve higher grades in my mocks.’



