Mrs J Mills

Lead Teacher ICT and Business

An aspiration for many young people is to be self-employed and start their own business. The skills required for this, such as being able to work collaboratively and creatively, solve problems and have awareness of businesses and customers, are also those requested by employers.

This qualification will give pupils the skills and confidence to explore how different business situations affect decision-making. They will develop their understanding of concepts, objectives and terminology, and the impact of contemporary issues on business operations for paper 1. This exam is 1hr 30 mins long with a weight of 50%.

Pupils are introduced to business concepts and issues concerning the activities of a business. They explore the purpose and role of a business from spotting an opportunity through to the growth of an established business. They also look at the role of marketing and human resources.

Pupils study Business activity, marketing and people for paper 1, which consists of multiple choice questions and longer mark questions based on business case studies. They will also study, Operations, finance and influences on business for paper 2.  This exam is 1hr 30 mins long with a weight of 50%.

 

Pupils take a closer look at the role of operations and finance in business activity. Operations include production processes, quality of goods and services, customer service, and working with suppliers. Finance covers its role, its sources, costs, profit and loss, cash and cash flow.

They also explore how business responds to external influences, such as ethical and environmental considerations, the economic climate and globalisation, and the interdependent nature of business.