Business studies

Key Stage 4 (years 10/11)

We start the course with Component 1: Exploring Enterprises, this delivers the fundamental knowledge foundations our students need, covering topics such as developing business ideas, business ownership, public, private, and voluntary sectors, aims and objectives, marketing and market research, customer needs, competitor behaviour and situational analysis such as SWOT and PEST. Component 1 is assessed through a Pearson set assessment under timed conditions.

In Component 2: Planning and Presenting a Micro-Enterprise Idea, students put into practice the knowledge developed within Component 1. They develop an idea for a micro enterprise, carry out market research, and create a detailed business plan for their idea. The finished plan is presented ‘Dragons Den’ style to local entrepreneurs, who give feedback on their idea. Component 2 is assessed through a Pearson set assessment under timed conditions. #

Component 3: Promotion and Finance in Enterprise builds on the knowledge gained in Component 1 with students further developing their knowledge of marketing and business finance. Component 3 is assessed through an externally set exam at the end of year 11.

Key Stage 5 (years 12/13)

We aim to develop students’ knowledge and understanding of a wide range of opportunities within the field, whilst preparing students for the world of work. It is a vocational qualification, which takes an engaging, practical, and inspiring approach to learning and assessment.  

The course introduces students to the four main functions of business: finance, operations, marketing and human resources. These are either referenced within each unit or one of them is focused on as the main aspect of a unit, an example being Unit 2 Developing a Marketing Campaign. The aim of this is that it exposes students to all aspects of business, which will aid them when they continue to study business at university or enter the workplace.

The curriculum challenges students to work independently, through assessment-based tasks, and collaboratively, through group work, and empowers every student to develop a curiosity and a desire for knowledge. There are some exam-based units that enable students to be better prepared for their future pathways whether that is higher education, an apprenticeship, or the career of their choice.

The curriculum is designed and delivered to encourage students to develop and use written, oral, and analytical skills that will benefit them in adult life. Some of the units will focus on enhancing their theoretical knowledge, however, some of the units will provide them with practical skills to ease their transition from secondary education by teaching them research methods, job interview skills, and personal finance.