Business
Examination Board | Pearson
Specification Code | Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Business (9BS0)
Subject Content
The purposes of this qualification are to:
- Define and assess the achievement of the knowledge, skills and understanding that will be needed by students planning to progress to undergraduate study at a UK higher education establishment, particularly (although not only) in the same subject area. For example, business management, business administration, accountancy and finance, human resource management, marketing, retail management, tourism management and international business.
- Set out a robust and internationally comparable post-16 academic course of study to develop that knowledge, skills and understanding
- Enable UK universities to accurately identify the level of attainment of students
- Provide a basis for school and college accountability measures at age 18
- Provide a benchmark of academic ability for employers.
The learning programme covers the following content areas:
- Theme 1: Marketing and people
- Theme 2: Managing business activities
- Theme 3: Business decisions and strategy
- Theme 4: Global business
Assessment Details
Students will be assessed through three exams at the end of Year 13 (with mock exams to prepare them throughout the two-year course).
To be successful at A-level Business, students need to demonstrate various skills and abilities. Students will need to be prepared to develop their abilities in the following areas:
- Knowledge of business concepts: students should have a deep understanding of fundamental business concepts, such as marketing, finance, operations, and human resources.
- Analytical skills: the ability to analyse data, financial statements, and case studies is crucial. This includes interpreting graphs, charts, and numerical data.
- Critical thinking: developing the capacity to think critically and make reasoned decisions is vital. Students should be able to evaluate different options and their potential outcomes.
- Communication skills: effective communication is essential for business. This includes both written and verbal communication, as well as the ability to create clear and persuasive arguments.
- Research skills: students will be required to conduct research on business-related topics. This involves finding reliable sources, gathering data, and drawing conclusions.
- Problem-solving: being able to identify and solve business-related problems is a key skill. This can involve analysing real-world business scenarios and proposing solutions.
- Economic understanding: an understanding of economic principles and their impact on business operations is often necessary.
- Ethical and social responsibility: an awareness of ethical issues in business and an understanding of a company's social responsibility are important aspects of the curriculum.
- Mathematical and quantitative Skills: proficiency in maths, especially in areas like accounting and finance, is required.
- Time management: A-level courses can be demanding, so good time management skills are crucial for staying on top of all the work assigned.
- Exam technique: understanding how to approach exams, including time management during exams and how to structure and answer questions effectively, is important for success.
- Independent learning: A-Level courses require independent study. Students should be able to manage their own learning and seek help when needed.
Additional Equipment Recommended
- Calculator
- A4 ringbinder folder
What can I do to support my child at home?
Share your real-world experiences in business. Ask what topic they are studying and possibly demonstrate how you or your workplace applies it. This will really help them to contextualise.
Encourage them to watch the news, read business blogs and discuss current economic and business topics.
Websites
- Tutor2U
- https://www.tutor2u.net/
- qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/ALevel/BusinessStudies/specification-and-sample-assessment-materials/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch
Books
- Pearson Edexcel A-Level Business - Ian Marcouse
- Revise Edexcel AS/A Level Business Revision Guide and Workbook
Teaching Staff Contact Details
Head of Business and Economics
Mr Wright - cwright@cottesloe.bucks.sch.uk
Teacher of Business and Economics
Mrs D'Souza - sdsouza@cottesloe.bucks.sch.uk
Business Curriculum Ethos and Intent
Intent
Learning about Business Studies will provide students with the knowledge, understanding and skills necessary to prepare them for employment or higher education. Business Studies has an essential core of knowledge and applied skills, giving learners the opportunity to gain a broad understanding and knowledge of the business environment. Students will develop an understanding of spotting business opportunities, they will know how to put ideas into practice, develop skills in growing a successful business and will understand internal and external influences on organisations.
Whilst studying Business Studies, students will learn how to grow an idea into a business. They will develop the knowledge and understanding of how and why businesses make decisions, such as financial, marketing and those within Human Resources.
Students’ personal development is encouraged, increasing knowledge and skills relevant to the business world through practical participation in a range of activities.
Ethos
We develop the character and culture of our students, preparing them to be tomorrow’s workforce, equipped and able to be successful at any time, anywhere, any place and to become independent life-long learners through the implementation of the 6 Cs. We aim to achieve the highest student outcomes; our central purpose of teaching and assessment, provide opportunities and feedback for students to improve their work. Students develop a range of skills including personal learning and thinking skills and access the best opportunities to practise these skills.
Students are supported throughout their studies; extra-curricular support and drop-in sessions after school add a layer of opportunity to ensure they are challenged and stretched within the lessons, exploring a wider learning context. This results in them entering the world of work with the attributes necessary to be successful.
Careers in Business
The Business curriculum opens doors to a wide array of exciting and rewarding careers. Some potential career paths include:
- Entrepreneurship: Starting and running your own business.
- Management: Leading and managing teams within organisations.
- Marketing: Developing and implementing marketing strategies.
- Finance: Analysing financial data and making investment decisions.
- Human Resources: Managing employee relations and talent acquisition.
- Accounting: Preparing financial reports and ensuring compliance with regulations.
- Consulting: Providing expert advice to businesses.
- Sales: Building relationships with clients and closing deals.
- Digital Marketing: Leveraging digital technologies to promote products and services.
- E-commerce: Managing online businesses and digital marketplaces.