Students will develop an understanding of business and economics that will be meaningful to their adult life and the world of work.  They will learn to appreciate what businesses are, do and how they impact upon the wider world and a variety of stakeholders. Specifically, students will master vocabulary, have financial competence and know concepts/theories, which they will apply to real life business scenarios whilst considering the social, ethical, political and economic impact these decisions will have upon different stakeholder groups.

Students will be introduced to the world of small businesses and find out how to develop an idea and spot an opportunity, and turn that into a successful business. They will understand how to make a business effective and manage money. Theme 1 will be taught in Yr10 which includes topics such as market research, business stakeholders, business and legislation and other external influences that impacts small businesses. There is great emphasis on the financial aspect of the business where students need to learn to calculate cash flow forecasts and interpret them and learn basic concepts of revenue, costs, break even and profit. Students will also gain skills such as application to various businesses, analysing the effects on the business and evaluating the possible solutions.

After understanding how small businesses are run the focus will be on larger businesses and the strategies businesses use to grow their business and make it profitable. This is covered in Theme 2 that is mostly taught in Yr11. There will be elements of Marketing, Production, Finance and Human Resources included in the course. Students will understand how these different functions work in a business and their objectives.

The whole course is assessed by taking two written examinations at the end of Yr11. Paper 1 is assessed on Theme1 of the course and Paper 2 is assessed on Theme2 of the course. Each paper is 1hr 45 min and is worth 50% of the overall grade.

The subject content for Business is structured so that the first year of the A-level starts with a foundation topic ‘What is Business?’ and moves into decision making within the functional areas of business; marketing, operations, finance and human resources. The first year will have the same content as AS course and the second year will be more focussed on the strategies business use and their effectiveness. Theme 3 and Theme 4 move from functions to strategy. You will explore influences on business strategy and decision making and understand how businesses mitigate risk and uncertainty. You will also explore global business and the opportunities and issues facing businesses in today’s global world.

The subject content is designed to engage students through topics and issues that are relevant in today’s society – they will study key contemporary developments such as digital technology, business ethics, and globalisation. Business is a contemporary subject that is dynamic, progressive and useful in every aspect of life. It is relevant to all professions whether you choose to start your own business or progress in the business you work for. Anyone with a general interest in business, ethics, the economy, finance, marketing, human resources, management, will enjoy the course.

Extended reading is recommended for this course where students are encouraged to read the news and be aware of business decisions made so the effects can be discussed in the classroom. www.tutor2u.net is a recommended website for understanding concepts and reading topical news.

The A Level course is assessed by taking three written examinations at the end of Yr13.

• Paper 1- Data response essay questions based on Theme 1 and Theme 4
• Paper2 – Data response essay questions on business activities, decisions and strategies based on Theme 2 and Theme 3
• Paper 3 – A research task before the exam. The questions in the exam are linked to the context you will research

Economics is a good subject for developing personal transferable skills. It is intellectually robust and of contemporary relevance. It can prepare students for very high-powered jobs that can be rewarding financially and intellectually. Many economics graduates have excellent, demanding and rewarding jobs.

You will develop the knowledge and skills needed to understand and analyse data, think critically about issues and make informed decisions.  You will also build upon your quantitative skills and appreciate that, when evaluating arguments, both qualitative and quantitative evidence are important.

The subject content consists of Micro and Macro Economics. This will be taught in 4 units over the two years.

• Theme 1: Introduction to markets and market failure
• Theme 2: The UK economy – performance and policies
• Theme 3: Business behaviour and the labour market
• Theme 4: A global perspective

Extended reading is recommended for this course where students are encouraged to read the news and be aware of political decision made so the effects can be discussed in the classroom. www.tutor2u.net is a recommended website for understanding concepts and reading topical news.

The A Level course is assessed by taking three 2 hour written examinations at the end of Yr13.

• Paper 1 – Markets and business behaviour
• Paper 2 – The national and global economy
• Paper 3 – Microeconomics and Macroeconomics