Business Studies

A Level Business Studies (Pearson)

Entry Criteria Whilst the study of Business Studies at GCSE is preferable, it is not essential. If GCSE Business Studies has been taken, a Level 5 or above must have been achieved. Students must attain a minimum of Level 5, ideally Level 6, in both GCSE English (Language or Literature) and Maths. Well developed writing techniques and mathematical ability are required for this demanding course.

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Year 1 In year one, students study Themes 1 and 2:

Theme 1 – Marketing and People Looking at marketing and meeting customer needs, as well as the role of entrepreneurs and leaders.
Theme 2 – Managing Business Activities Explores the role of finance and resource management, as well as the impact of external influences on business.

In year two, students will study Themes 3 and 4:

Theme 3 – students will study the ways in which businesses make decisions and implement strategies that will influence their competitiveness.
Theme 4 – students will investigate the causes and consequences of globalisation, global marketing strategies, and appreciate the role of global industries and companies in our economy.

Throughout the course you will develop a clear and to-the-point style of writing – the type used in the business world, enabling you to communicate effectively in a business setting. You will also learn how to analyse and interpret economic indicators, to work out how they may affect a business and what action should be taken to benefit from these, or minimise the damage.

How will I be assessed?

Students will sit three exam papers in the summer of Year 13.

Paper 1 will assess Marketing, People and Global businesses. Questions will be drawn from Themes 1 and 4, and from local, national and global contexts. 35% of the overall grade.
Paper 2 will assess Business Finance and Operations, and Business Decisions and Strategy. Questions will be drawn from Themes 2 and 3, and from local, national and global contexts. 35% of the overall grade.
Paper 3 will assess content across all four themes. For Paper 3, there will be a pre-released context document which will have a broad focus, such as an industry or market in which businesses operate. Examples from previous exams are the Fitness, Chocolate and Holiday industries.

Resources

You will be required to purchase a copy of the Edexcel A Level Revision Guide and Workbook ready for the start of term. ISBN-10: 1292213213.

What could I do next?

Studying business helps you to develop your analytical thinking and teaches you skills such as how to interpret a range of information from different sources. Business Studies is a very popular subject choice for Higher Education and students can choose to follow an integrated route of business and economics, or indeed study the subjects independently. The Advanced GCE in Business Studies will give students enhanced career choice and progression opportunities in fields such as business and/or economics, business management, accountancy and human resources.