BUSINESS

LEVEL 3: A LEVEL
EXAMINING BOARD: AQA

This course will give you an insight into contemporary business issues such as digital technology, the impact of businesses on the environment, business ethics, the modern workplace practices and globalisation.

It is ideal for those with an interest in the business world or those who imagine a future in a self-employed or managerial position.

Using case studies of real businesses, you will develop an entrepreneurial approach to problem-solving, business analysis and evaluation.

You will develop the knowledge and skills needed to analyse data, think critically about issues, and make informed decisions.

You will develop a range of transferable skills including oral and written communication, decision-making, goal setting, leadership, teamwork, numerical and analytical skills.

There are many competitions, virtual talks, and simulations.

Past students have pitched business ideas to industry specialists and attended virtual presentations by business experts to find out about progression into different industry sectors.

This course balances practice and theory. You will learn about different business theories and models and understand how they apply to the world of work and different industrial sectors.

 

You will study the following topics:

  • What is business, managing, marketing and finance?
  • Business and objectives
  • Forms of business and stakeholders
  • Marketing management
  • Financial management
  • Managing operations and people
  • Operations management
  • People management
  • Managing business culture
  • Business and society
  • Business and the external environment
  • Business strategy
  • Change

You will be expected to write extended essays and apply a range of theoretical business models and numerical formulas.

This course has a balance of numerical and essay-based activities.

As a minimum, you will need (or equivalent to):

  • GCSE Mathematics grade 4
  • GCSE English Language grade 4
  • plus three more GCSEs at grade 4

There are three exams, each two hours in length.

  • Paper 1: What is business, management and finance?
  • Paper 2: Managing operations and people
  • Paper 3 Business and society, business and the external environment and business strategy.

The exams are based on real life case studies.

Students commonly progress onto a range of degrees including Business, Economics, Marketing, Finance & Banking, E-Business & Commerce, International Business, Accountancy, Sports Management, and Business & Law.

Alternatively, students go directly onto apprenticeships or employment.

Potential future career paths include Marketing, Finance and Investment, Business Admin/Management, Economics, Retail, Human Resources, Distribution and Logistics, Accountancy, Sales, General or Commercial Management, and Event Management.

Is there any enrichment on offer?

EnRICH opportunities have included Dragons Den format competitions, virtual Amazon tours, Business escape rooms, business representative talks and workshops, and a Disneyland Paris visit exploring how the theme park operates as a business.