Business Studies Department

Staff in Department

Mrs McBride (Head of Department)

Miss Rossborough

Aim

To offer our pupils a range of Business related qualifications that will prepare them for future careers in the world of business and commerce.

Key Stage Four

BTEC Level 2 Business

Aims

To allow students the chance to study the world of business, giving them the opportunity to develop knowledge and technical skills in a practical learning environment. Pupils will examine the roles and responsibilities of setting up a new business and its financial management. They will explore the range of business types and understand the factors that influence success through analysing business models. Students will also develop, enhance and apply their research, practical, communication and technical skills through creating and presenting a business plan for a realistic business start-up in the local area.

Exam Board

Pearson (Edexcel)  

Assessment

  • Portfolio Units:

    • Introduction to Business

    • Enterprise in the Business World

    • The Principles of Customer Service

  • Finance exam (online)

Real life businesses experienced

We study a range of different local businesses, allowing pupils the chance to see their learning of business in action.  BTEC Business students could choose further study or a career in Business following completion of this course, including Banking and Finance.

GCSE BACS (Business and Communication Systems)

Aims

To introduce students to the business world and the changing role of digital technology in business today.  Students learn about file management and applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, databases, web authoring, web browsing, email and presentation software. They also study types of business, recruitment, selection, training, marketing, the role of stakeholders and customers, and how best to communicate a message.  Students then have an opportunity to connect all they have learned to plan and develop a digital solution for a business.

Exam Board

CCEA

Assessment

The specification has three units:

  • Unit 1: Software Applications for Business (computer based exam worth 40%)

  • Unit 2: The Business Environment (written exam worth 35%)

  • Unit 3: Developing Digital Solutions (Controlled Assessment worth 25%)

 A qualification in Business and Communication Systems could lead to further study or a career in business, digital technology or ICT.  It is a great mix of Business and IT!

OS Business Administration

Aims

To allow learners to learn for work, through work and about work.  Pupils will have opportunities to sample work-related learning within coherent occupational contexts and to develop their skills in literacy, numeracy and ICT.  It should help prepare learners to make informed decisions about further learning opportunities and careers in Business and Services.

Exam Board

CCEA

Assessment

Students must complete 2 portfolio units:

  • Using Office Technology (worth 50%)

  • Communication in an Office (worth 50%)

Each portfolio incorporates practical business experience, scenarios, roleplay and helps to prepare students for working in a business.  Typically, students could continue further study or a career in Business Administration or Customer Service.

Key Stage Five

BTEC Level 3 Business (options available to study either 1 or 2 A-level equivalent)

Aims

To prepare students for further study or a career in the business sector, developing a range of skills and techniques, personal skills and attributes essential for successful performance in working life.  The core units give learners an introduction to and understanding of the business environment, management of resources, marketing and communication – all fundamental to the success of business organisations.  Learners can focus on their career aspirations, choosing from six specialist pathways consisting of Finance, Management, Marketing, Law, Administration, and Human Resources.

Exam Board

Pearson (Edexcel)

Assessment

•     6/12 portfolio units

•     Wide range of areas covered, e.g. Business Environment, Human Resources, Marketing, Promotion, Health and Safety…

Students will be involved in researching and understanding the world of business using real life examples.  It helps in preparing them for further study or a career in the world of business/work. 

Extra-Curricular

Young Enterprise Sixth Form Company Programme

  • Students running their own business

  • Experience of various job roles in business, e.g. Managing Director, Marketing, Human Resources, Finance, Digital Marketing etc.

  • Support from YE and local mentors from LEDCOM

  • Trading opportunities – St George’s Market and AbbeyCentre

  • Competition element helps students gain invaluable skills in presentation and interview

Jill Johnston