BUSINESS STUDIES

At GCSE level students follow the OCR ‘Business Studies A’ specification.  This involves the study of various areas of business leading to a ‘Core’ exam (50%) based on the following topics: The external environment of the business; Business structure, organisation and control; Business behaviour; People in organisations; Aiding and controlling business activity. 

In addition to this there is another exam (25%) on ‘Business communication and marketing’.  Both papers can be taken at either Foundation or Higher level. The remaining 25% of the course comprises a piece of coursework that centres on the setting up of a business in the school’s local area.

The GCSE in Business Studies is available for study as a two year course starting in year 10 or as a one year course in year 12 or 13.

GCE level OCR ‘Applied Business’ is available for study in years 12 and 13.  An exam (‘Understanding the Business environment’) plus two coursework portfolios (‘Creating a marketing proposal’ and ‘Recruitment in the workplace’) result in an AS in one year.  This is weighted as 33% exam and 67% coursework.

Students may then continue to A2 level in which they complete another two portfolios (including ‘A business plan for the entrepreneur’) plus an exam (‘Strategic decision making’). 

Students must carry out more independent research for their ‘A’ level than for a GCSE and worker in far greater depth and detail.  It is therefore not possible to attempt an AS without already having a GCSE.

All taught Business Studies courses prepare students for careers in business as well as helping them understand everyday financial matters and the mechanics of how businesses operate.