Business

Examining Body: Edexcel (Pearson)

Entry Criteria: five Grade 4 passes, including Maths & English

The Level 3 BTEC National in Business is an A Level standard qualification for students wishing to specialise in the world of business. You are assessed mainly through challenging, exciting coursework projects and some external assessments too.

This exciting qualification provides real choice, as you can select Business as either a Single or Double option. The Extended Certificate is the  equivalent of one A Level. The Diploma is the equivalent of two A Levels.

The courses are ideal for students considering:

  • A Degree in Business/Economics/Finance
  • Other Degrees (e.g. Law)
  • A career in accountancy or commerce
  • Higher apprenticeships when aged 18
  • A management role in business
  • Running your own business

Our students are regularly involved in contacting local businesses, using market research, e-mailing companies via the Internet etc. Amongst many other things, you will be taught how to organise a business, promote products and services, hire and fire staff and control business finance. In addition, you will spend a lot of time developing excellent communication and computer skills.

A variety of teaching and learning styles are used, including business visits, group work, personal investigation and practical work. You will develop word- processing, database and spreadsheet skills, and learn how to interview employees and deliver presentations.

Typical lessons include:

  • Learning about new business theories
  • Researching project work on the internet
  • Visits to/by local businesses
  • Designing new promotional material
  • Independent work—practical NOT textbook tasks

This exciting two-year course will appeal to students who prefer to work steadily throughout the year and be assessed continuously. The continuous assessment consists of coursework units and external assessments. So, if you perform well at coursework and are interested in a career in business, this may be the subject for you.