This course is designed for learners who want to continue their education through applied learning and who aim to progress to higher education and ultimately to employment in the business sector. The qualification is equivalent in size to an A Level and aims to provide a basic introduction of the business sector.

What is the structure of the course?

There are three mandatory units (see below) and one optional unit (this will be decided after consultation with students)

• Exploring Business
• Developing a Marketing Campaign
• Personal and Business Finance

What skill/requirements are essential?

The skills required can be broadly broken down into the following main categories:

• cognitive and problem-solving skills
• critical thinking approach – non-routine problems applying expert and creative solutions
• systems and technology
• intrapersonal skills: communicating, working collaboratively, negotiating and influencing, self-presentation
• interpersonal skills: self -management, adaptability and resilience, self-monitoring and development.
• Students who have not studied GCSE Business will need to commit to acquiring business knowledge through additional study early in the course or by arrangement during the summer
• Students will have, or develop, enhanced skills using Microsoft Word and PowerPoint (or similar).

What do students think?

“This a great chance to understand the key principles of Business that will either help me to work in the business sector in the future, or help to set up my own business one day.”

Where can this course lead?

The qualification carries UCAS points and is recognised by higher education providers as contributing to meeting admission requirements. Progression can be direct to an honours degree or to a Higher National, a Foundation Degree, or a Higher Apprenticeship.