Business Studies aims to develop knowledge and understanding of the environment within which business activity takes place, and the way in which changes in that environment influence business behaviour. Students will consider the various types of business organisation, both in the private and public sectors, and the way they operate including decision-making on production, finance, marketing and human resources management. This is achieved by first looking at the issues involved with the planning, setting up and running a business (unit 1) and later by examining the issues involved with the growth of business (unit 2).
It is not only important for students to have an understanding of the business world with which they will come into contact, but also to develop the ability to communicate accurately and effectively using knowledge and ideas in verbal, numerical and written ways. Students will learn these skills along with the techniques of enquiry, selection, application and evaluation of information from a variety of sources.
Candidates are prepared for the GCSE in Business Studies offered by the Assessment and Qualifications Alliance. The syllabus is examined by means of two one hour written papers (unit 1 40%, unit 2 35%) and a controlled assessment (25%). The controlled assessment will be a task set by the examination board for which students will be given ample research, planning and preparation time before writing up their findings under controlled conditions.
Sixth Form
Business Studies [AQA]
Business Studies is a dynamic subject which requires constant observation of current business activities and it is in this light that the content of the syllabus is studied. The aim is to provide candidates with a critical understanding of a variety of business organisations, the markets they serve and the process of adding value. It is examined on a modular basis as follows:
AS
- Unit 1 - Marketing and Accounting and Finance
- Unit 2 - People and Operations Management
- Unit 3 - External Influences and Objectives and Strategy
A2
- Unit 4 - Further Marketing and Accounting and Finance
- Unit 5 - Further People and Operations Management
- Unit 6 - Further External Influences and Objectives and Strategy
Continually stressed throughout the course is the independent nature of business activity, both internally between the various business sections and externally with the social and economic environment. Frequent use will be made through the course of case studies and, where possible, pupils will be given the opportunity to visit relevant businesses. Those taking the subject should develop a practical understanding of business issues from the perspective of company boards, shareholders, management, employees, local community and consumer and be able to recognise the implications for and impact on these groups of individual business decisions. Any visits made will be voluntary but highly recommended and may involve a cost. Further details can be obtained from the Head of Department.
In the words of Sir John Harvey Jones, "We believe that we have nothing to lose and everything to gain from a better understanding by young people of the basics of business and the roles of such skills as marketing, production, personnel management and accounting in this continually changing world".
Economics
Sixth Form
AS Economics (AQA)
There is no formal entry requirement although success at GCSE Mathematics is useful. The course should enable candidates to develop a critical understanding of the workings of the market economy, its effect upon individuals and institutions operating within such a system and foster an ability to appraise the role of government. This can be achieved through a study of economic concepts, principles and theories. Students will be required to apply this knowledge in the context of economic issues and problems demonstrating an ability to make rational and consistent judgement in matters where economic influences are at work.
The course is examined on a modular basis:
- Unit 1 - Markets and Market Failure
- Unit 2 - The National Economy
- Unit 3 - Markets at Work
The skills of literacy, numeracy, data handling and the ability to communicate logically and effectively in an economic context are important.