Section 3: essential skills - education

How good are you at each of the following skills? Select 1 of 3 options:

  • choose option 1 if you need help – I feel stuck doing this, it feels difficult to me
  • choose option 2 if you are improving – I'm not great at this but I'm making progress at it
  • choose option 3 if you are good – I feel confident doing this and others say I'm doing well at it

Number skills

  • counting
  • addition and subtraction
  • multiplication and division
  • recognising different coins and notes
  • knowing how much money to use and getting the right change
  • telling the time

Reading and writing skills

  • reading familiar words
  • reading basic English
  • reading with pictures
  • reading books and magazines
  • understanding signs and symbols
  • copying words from books or the board
  • writing familiar words
  • writing sentences
  • filling out forms
  • spelling

Organisational skills

  • punctuality (being on time)
  • using a diary or calendar
  • using a bus or train timetable

Computer and phone skills

  • logging on to the computer
  • finding information on the internet
  • completing online forms
  • using emails
  • using ‘word’ documents
  • using ‘Power Point’ to create presentations
  • making a phone call to someone you don't know
  • answering the phone
  • asking for information on the phone
  • leaving a message on an answer phone
  • sending and receiving text/WhatsApp messages

Communication skills in the classroom and workplace

  • speaking using Sign Language – Makaton or BSL
  • using symbols or pictures
  • talking to people you don't know
  • speaking in front of a group of people

Travelling and independence

  • personal hygiene (washing, smelling fresh)
  • brushing teeth
  • making sure my clothes are clean and ironed
  • dressing appropriately – for example, going to work or going out with friends
  • making sure I have everything I need for the day – for example, bag, PE kit, books, phone, bus pass
  • travelling independently – bus, train, walking
  • asking for help
  • keeping myself safe both in person and online