Business Studies A Level

Business Studies

A Level

What is this course about?

• This course aims to develop a critical understanding of organisations and the markets they serve.
• The initial study focuses on the setting up of a small business and as the course progresses; the growth of business is studied through to the managing of a large company.

What topics will I study?

AS:

• Covers the issues involved in a business start-up, such as research and planning, as well as the factors that determine success.
• Focuses on how established business might improve their effectiveness by making tactical decisions at a functional level.

A2:

• Focuses on larger businesses which may be trading in international markets.
• Assesses the external factors that can act as a catalyst for change and how change can be managed successfully when responding to external stimuli

How will my work be assessed?

At AS :

Two end-of-year exams including short answer questions, extended responses based on a mini case study, and compulsory multi-part data response questions.

At A2
Two end-of-year exams.

There is no coursework at either AS or A2.

Frequently asked questions

What skills will you need to develop to succeed?
To succeed in Business Studiesyou will need to able to absorb a lot of information quite quickly and be able to write fluent and persuasive English.

What knowledge do I need to succeed?

• No previous knowledge of Business Studies is required, indeed most students know very little indeed about the subject before they start the course.
• An interest in current affairs is an advantage.

Are there any specific entry requirements?

What are the lessons like?

• A range of teaching and learning styles is used during the course. Formal lessons are combined with discussion, case studies, task-based learning, ILT and video, all pitched at a level appropriate to the age and experience of students.
• The basic notes for the course are included in printed work sheets.
• 1:1 support is available to all students.

What have I got to do to do well?

• Keep up-to-date with current affairs
• Complete your homework on time and to the best of your ability
• Learn from classroom activities.

What students say about this course?

• "I want to start my own businesses and the course is going someway to prepare me for this".
• "I enjoyed the course so much that I want the opportunity to come back and tell prospective students about it".
• "At the start I found it confusing, but all of a sudden what was on the news started making more sense".
• "We have the opportunity to constantly contribute to lessons which enhances our learning".

What do people do with A level Business Studies?

• Business Studies is an excellent preparation for higher education in a number of areas, including the further study of the subject itself and accounting.
• It is also an extremely useful background for those considering setting up their own business.
• It provides an understanding of how businesses which will be useful for nearly all careers and workplaces.

Will there be any significant costs related to this subject apart from normal stationery?
Day trip (optional) £25

Study trip abroad (optional) £250 - £500