About
Qualifications and Exams –
Supporting Young People Across the UK
Keys provides access to recognised qualifications that help young people take confident steps toward their post-16 pathways.
Introducing Qualifications and Exam Support
As an AQA and City and Guilds registered centre, we offer Functional Skills exams in English and Maths for learners who need a flexible, supportive route to achieving essential qualifications.
Our nationwide service is designed for pupils who may not thrive in traditional exam settings but are ready to demonstrate their skills and celebrate their progress.
How it's delivered
Clear, Flexible Pathways for Achievement
We begin with an initial assessment to understand each young person's current level and identify the most appropriate exam stage, from Entry Level through to Level 2. Learners can prepare through our tutoring programmes or through their existing education provision, depending on what works best for them.
Exams are arranged in a supportive environment, with clear guidance every step of the way. This helps young people feel confident, calm, and ready to succeed.
As a registered centre, we manage the full process, including registration, assessment, and certification, ensuring a straightforward experience for pupils, families, schools, and local authorities.
We also offer...
Keys Tutoring: Personalised Education Support Across the UK
Keys Tutoring provides specialist one-to-one and small group education for children and young people who need a more flexible and personalised approach to learning. Building on the strong foundations of CF Education, our nationwide service supports pupils who are struggling to attend school, at risk of exclusion, facing disrupted education, or in need of a bespoke package that helps them re-engage and make progress.
Who We Support
Our qualifications and exams offer is designed for children and young people who:
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Need a flexible route to achieving English or Maths qualifications
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Are preparing for employment, apprenticeships, college, or other post-16 pathways
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Benefit from sitting exams outside a large school environment
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Have been receiving tutoring or mentoring through Keys and are ready to gain certification
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Require an accredited outcome to support their next steps
We ensure that every young person feels supported and prepared, whatever their starting point.
View the Referral ProcessOur Aim
Our aim is to give young people the opportunity to gain meaningful qualifications that open doors. We focus on building confidence, reducing exam anxiety, and helping learners achieve success they can be proud of.
By providing a clear and supportive route to certification, we help young people move forward with purpose and feel motivated about their next stage in education, training, or employment.
Referral process
Referral Process:
How to Access ALFA
Referrals can be made by local authorities, schools, children’s homes, or even parents. ALFA is also available for privately funded placements.
Here’s how it works:
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Initial consultation
The process begins with an enquiry to our Qualifications and Exams Team. We gather key information about the young person, their current level, and the type of qualification they are working towards.
This first conversation helps us understand the learner’s needs and ensures our team can recommend the most appropriate exam pathway.
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Assessment and Preparation
Following the initial enquiry, an assessment is arranged to establish the young person’s baseline and identify the correct Functional Skills level.
This assessment provides a clear picture of strengths, learning gaps, and any support the learner may require in the lead-up to their exam. From this, we outline the next steps and confirm eligibility for registration.
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Exam Booking and Certification
Once the assessment is complete, our team registers the young person for their chosen exam and organises a suitable exam date and setting.
We handle all arrangements, ensure the learner understands the process, and provide guidance to help them feel calm and prepared.
After the exam, results and certification are issued promptly, giving the young person clear evidence of achievement to support their post-16 or onward education pathway.
Get in touch
Get Started with Keys Inclusion Pathways
To arrange Functional Skills exams or discuss how Keys can support a young person with qualifications, get in touch with our team. We provide simple, flexible options nationwide.
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Email: AP.Referrals@keys-group.co.uk
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Phone: 0121 728 7800
We aim to respond to all email enquiries within 24 hours.
Careers
We are hiring assessors and exam facilitators
Our Qualifications and Exams service is growing, and we are looking for dedicated professionals who want to play a key role in helping young people achieve recognised English and Maths qualifications.
This is a unique opportunity for individuals who are confident, organised, and passionate about supporting learners in a calm, structured, and encouraging environment. By joining our nationwide team, you will help young people take important steps toward their post-16 pathways, whether that’s further education, training, or employment.
