Business Studies

The department prides itself on not only delivering courses that allow students to develop academically but ones that helps to foster and grow transferable skills which can later be applied to further education and the work environment.

The Edexcel Business Studies courses offer a dynamic and well-rounded view of the business world which many past students have enjoyed and grown a passion for.

The department aims to develop students who:

• Actively engage in the study of business and economics to develop as effective and independent students and as critical and reflective thinkers with enquiring minds;
• Use an enquiring, critical approach to distinguish facts and opinions, to build arguments and make informed judgements;
• Develop and apply their knowledge, understanding and skills to contemporary issues in a range of local, national and global contexts;
• Appreciate the range of perspectives of different stakeholders in relation to business and economic activities;
• Consider the extent to which business and economic activity can be ethical and sustainable.

This is achieved by using a rigorous approach to study, using a range of resources and well-developed schemes of work. These have the main intention of making the theory learned applicable to the real world, via the use of current and pertinent real-life examples. Students are encouraged to work in a cooperative and collaborative manner which not only allows them to develop and share knowledge but also increase their confidence and ability to communicate.

The course is split into two main themes

• Theme 1 – ‘Investigating Small Businesses’
• Theme 2 – ‘Building A Business’

While studying the two themes of this course you will be introduced to the world of small businesses and will look at what makes someone a successful business person. You will find out how to develop an idea and spot an opportunity, and turn that into a successful business. You will understand how to make a business effective and manage money. You will also see how the world around us affects small businesses and all the people involved.

What can I do after I’ve completed the course?

• The GCSE business course can help you prepare for further and higher education such as AS/A2 Levels and BTEC courses.
• You will become skilled in making decisions, being creative, solving problems, understanding finance, dealing with data, communicating and working as part of a team.
• A GCSE Business course could lead to work in a business-related profession such as accountancy, law, marketing or the leisure and tourism industry.