A-Level Business Studies aims to develop a critical understanding of organisations, the markets they serve and how they add value for their customers. It looks at the effect on business behaviour of different stakeholder expectations ie shareholders, customers, employees.

In the first year pupils study two AS 1 modules:

Unit 1 will cover:

Starting a Business
Financial Planning

Unit 2 will cover:

People
Operations management
Finance
Marketing and Competition

Assessment in Year 1 - Pupils sit two modular papers:
• Unit 1: 40% of total AS
• Unit 2: 60% of total AS

In the second year the pupils study two A2 modules which consolidate the work covered in year 1 and develops further understanding of each key area.

Unit 3: Strategies for Success

Financial Strategies and Accounts
Marketing Strategies
Operation Strategies
Human Resource Strategies

Unit 4: The Business Environment and Change

External Influences
Leadership, Corporate Culture, Ethics
Managing Change

Assessment in Year 2 - pupils sit two further papers:
• Unit 3: 25% of total A-level marks
• Unit 4: 25% of total A-level marks

How the Course is Taught

To prepare young people for the challenges to be faced in the wider world pupils are expected to be ‘active learners’ and are expected to research topics through textbooks, library books, current articles and IT based resources.

To develop their confidence and communication skills pupils will be sometimes expected to make class presentations of their work using IT software. They will be encouraged to work together in groups and to share/debate their views with others. Use is also made of interactive CD ROMS.

The use of word-processing, spreadsheets and databases are used whenever appropriate to develop skills increasingly expected by employers.

Entry Requirements

Pupils should have an active interest in current affairs and business issues in general. They would be expected regularly to read good quality papers, listen to the daily news and watch business-related programmes such as the Money Programme and Panorama.

Also holding a GCSE in Business Studies is useful but it is not compulsory.

Pupils would need to have sound mathematical skills as they are asked to review a business situation, analyse statistical data and make appropriate recommendations to deal effectively with a given situation. A ‘B’ grade in mathematics at GCSE is recommended.