Key Stage 5
Qualification
AQA - GCE 'AS' level and full 'A' level
The course will draw heavily on current Business issues and case studies.
It aims to give students:-
- An understanding of how different business works.
- The skills of analysis, problem solving, research, investigation and evaluation of business problems.
- Useful knowledge, such as consumerism, which can be used in
everyday life. Ethical and environmental issues. - An appreciation of the range and complexity of business activity.
The main units are:-
- Marketing and Accounts.
- People and Operations Management.
- External Influences and Strategy.
For A2 the units above are revisited in greater depth.
Analysing business holistically.
Course Length
'AS' level normally 1 year. Full 'A' level 2 years
Entry Requirements
Students should have at least a Grade C in Maths and English.
Course Delivery
The course staff make extensive use of real case studies and therefore the teaching style draws upon students general knowledge.
Staff make use of group discussion, business simulations e.g. Trade Unions versus Management, The Young Enterprise scheme, lectures and student presentations.
There is an emphasis upon students developing research skills and not just knowing facts.
Where appropriate, staff make use of videos, industry visits and computer simulations.
Assessment Method
The course is assessed by examination. It is anticipated that students will in addition to the examination, build a portfolio of 'best' work which, although not examined, can be used in future interviews.
All courses will be assessed in modules. Two modules successfully passed represent 'AS' level and a further Two ('A2') represent the full 'A' level. Modules can be assessed in January and June of Year 12 and Year 13.
Progression from the course
Business Studies develops skills and knowledge which are obviously relevant to many levels of employment. It is also an area of growth in Higher / Further Education. Many courses, often in differing areas e.g. computers and languages, have a Business Studies element or module.
