Business Studies

The way ahead at 14

At Key Stage 4, you can opt to study GCSE or BTEC Business.  The BTEC course is worth four GCSEs (at Grades A*- C) and will take up two of your subject choices.  The BTEC course is more practical than the GCSE and provides experience in modern business practice and methods.  Both courses will involve you in the study of business in the local area and will require you to do your own research.  The BTEC course covers similar ground to the GCSE.  The main difference in the courses is the method of assessment.  The GCSE is mainly examination based, with 25% of the marks from a multiple choice examination at the end of Year 10; a further 25% from a piece of controlled assessment at the end of Year 10; and a final extended answer examination worth 50% at the end of Year 11. All of the BTEC assessment is through coursework assignments so there are no examinations on this course.  Whichever course you choose, the teachers of the Business Department, with its friendly welcoming atmosphere, look forward to teaching you.

Directions at 16

There are a variety of courses which follow on from the Key Stage 4 Business courses at Post 16. These are:

  • BTEC Law – (Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma) – equivalent to 1 A-level
  • BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in Business – Level 3 (Single option – equivalent to 1 A-level)
  • BTEC – Level 3 Diploma)  (Double option – equivalent to 2 A-levels)

Business courses Post-16 tend to be the link between education and work.  The courses prepare you for Higher Education and the world of work.

Routes after Post 16

Degrees in Business can lead to jobs in the service sector. About three quarters of the jobs in the North East are in this sector. Business courses ensure you are well prepared for employment, which might include finance, banking, accountancy, sales, marketing, administration, retailing, teaching, the police and too many others to mention.

For further information please contact:
Miss Hill/Mr Spence – GCSE; Mrs Maddison - BTEC