Business studies

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Our aims

Welcome to Business Studies

The Business Studies Department is dedicated to providing pupils with exciting opportunities and enriching experiences. We work closely with our pupils to support their learning and ensure they achieve the best possible outcomes.

Department Aims
  • To maintain and/or stimulate pupil curiosity, interest and enjoyment in Business Studies.
  • To enable pupils to be familiar with a body of business knowledge, principles, skills and vocabulary.
  • To enable pupils to see Business Studies in the context of a wider body of knowledge and skills.
  • To enable pupils to understand and use investigative methods.
  • To enable pupils to be able to work independently and as part of a team.
  • To develop an awareness in pupils of the implications of business and industry (past and present) for the individual, the community and the environment.

Departmental staff

  • Mr N Murray (Head of Department)
  • Mrs N McMahon
  • Mrs AM Delargy
  • Miss L King

Curriculum

The Business Studies Department is dedicated to providing pupils with exciting opportunities and enriching experiences. We work closely with our pupils to support their learning and ensure they achieve the best possible outcomes.

Our Business Studies and Business Communication Systems courses provide pupils with a dynamic and engaging introduction to the modern business world. They highlight the fast-paced, ever-evolving nature of business, the wide variety of business enterprises, and the interconnectedness of different business functions.

Both GCSE Business and Business and Communication Systems are practical, stimulating subjects that develop essential life skills including effective communication, problem solving, data interpretation and presentation, time management, teamwork, research, and decision-making.

Whether students aim to continue their academic journey, pursue a professional career, or explore entrepreneurial opportunities, these courses equip them with the knowledge and skills needed for success in the 21st century.

Business Studies complements subjects such as Economics, Mathematics, Geography, and Digital Technology. It also supports the development of key skills in Communication, Numeracy, and the effective use of Digital Technology.

Through this subject, students gain a wide range of valuable insights and practical skills, including:

  • Understanding how businesses are established and how they operate;
  • Exploring the growing influence of e-business and mobile business (m-business);
  • Gaining awareness of quality assurance processes and health and safety legislation;
  • Examining recruitment, selection, training, and staff motivation strategies;
  • Learning about business finance, including interpreting and analysing financial information;
  • Conducting research, evaluating business plans, and producing reports with well-informed recommendations.
CCEA Business and Communication Systems

Studying Business and Communication Systems will engage you in the study of business and digital technology and develop your practical skills in using software applications. You will have the opportunity to explore the changing role of digital technology in business and economic activities.

This specification will help you to develop a lifelong interest in and enjoyment of business subjects, while being inspired, moved and changed by following an exciting, enjoyable and worthwhile course.

Why study Business and Communication Systems

In studying this course you will:

  • Study business activity and how ICT has changed the business environment
  • Develop as an effective and independent thinker with an enquiring mind;
  • Have the opportunity to develop valuable practical ICT skills in a business context; and
  • Use software applications to develop digital solutions to enhance business activities.
Why choose this qualification?

Unit 3 of the specification (controlled assessment): Developing Digital Solutions. There is the opportunity to make use of the skills developed in Unit 1 and Unit 2 as well as the opportunity to plan and develop a digital solution for business. It provides an excellent opportunity to experience both a business and practical ICT based course.

BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Business

Equivalent in size to one A Level.

  • Mandatory Content (83%)
  • External Assessment (58%)

It comprises of 4 units of which three are mandatory and two are externally assessed through examination.

The Extended Certificate is for pupils who are interested in learning about the business sector alongside other fields of study, with a view to progressing to a wide range of higher education courses, not necessarily in business-related subjects. It is designed to be taken as part of a programme of study that includes other appropriate BTEC Nationals or A Levels.

Structures of the qualifications at a glance

Unit 1 - Exploring Business

In this unit, students investigate the diverse world of business by exploring different types of organisations, their purposes, and how they operate in competitive environments. From local enterprises to global corporations, Pupils will examine how businesses are structured, how they communicate with stakeholders, and how internal and external factors influence their success.

Through research and analysis, students will gain insight into business markets, the impact of innovation, and the importance of strategic decision-making. This unit develops key skills in research, communication, and critical thinking, providing a solid foundation for further study or a career in the business sector.

Unit 2 - Developing a Marketing Campaign

This unit introduces students to the dynamic world of marketing and the vital role it plays in business success. Pupils will explore the principles of marketing, investigate how businesses identify and target their audiences, and examine the tools and techniques used to promote products and services.

Drawing on real-world case studies, students will analyse market research data and apply their understanding to plan a marketing campaign for a given scenario. This unit encourages creativity, strategic thinking, and problem-solving—essential skills for those considering careers in marketing, advertising, or business development. Assessment is through a controlled assessment, where students must respond to a brief using their research and planning skills.

Unit 3 - Personal and Business Finance

This unit explores the crucial role that finance plays in both personal and business contexts. Students will gain a strong understanding of how to manage their own finances, including budgeting, saving, and understanding credit. On the business side, they will learn about financial planning, sources of finance, and how to interpret financial documents such as profit and loss accounts, balance sheets, and cash flow forecasts.

Through practical scenarios and case studies, pupils will develop the analytical and decision-making skills needed to assess financial performance and make informed financial decisions. This unit also prepares students for the external examination, combining theoretical knowledge with real-world application — an essential foundation for anyone pursuing a career in business, finance, or management.

Unit 22 - Market Research

Market research is essential for understanding customer needs and making informed business decisions. In this unit, students will explore the purpose and importance of market research in both new and existing businesses. They will examine different research methods—both primary and secondary—and learn how to design, conduct, and analyse research effectively.

Pupils will have the opportunity to plan and carry out their own market research project, developing practical skills in data collection, interpretation, and presentation. This unit builds confidence in making evidence-based recommendations and prepares students for roles in

Career Opportunities

Business Studies is highly relevant to the world we live in today. Everyone interacts with business in some way—whether as an owner, employee, or customer.

Gaining knowledge in Business provides valuable insights that contribute positively to all career paths. More specifically, this subject offers an excellent foundation for students interested in pursuing careers in: