Business Studies
In the Business Studies department, we not only aim to support and encourage our students to progress to achieve to their highest potential but look beyond academic progress. Through this we ensure everyone develops a range of skills and qualities. This includes building upon pupil confidence and pupils' ability to communicate, this is encouraged through the group discussions and positive working environment which has been established. Further skills include teamworking and problem solving, developed through the interactive group tasks and presentations which the students lead. Pupils also develop the ability to act on and develop their initiative through encouraging a proactive approach, while also developing their resilience and determination to achieve.
What do students learn in Business Studies?
In Business Studies we offer CCEA Business Studies at GCSE Level, this involves three units. The first Unit is taught over Year 11 in preparation for the exam which is sat in May/June. In year 12 pupils will complete two units, Unit 2 which is an exam in May/June and Unit 3, which is a controlled assessment, taken after Christmas.
We also offer the OCN NI Level 2 Certificate in Skills for Business, a practical and engaging course designed to develop essential business knowledge and employability skills. This qualification is ideal for students who want to gain a strong foundation in business practices and prepare for further study or the workplace.
Assessment is through internally assessed coursework, allowing students to apply their learning to real-life scenarios. This course provides an excellent stepping stone to further qualifications such as the BTEC National Level 3 Extended Certificate in Business or employment in business-related roles.
Post 16 Provision
BTEC National Level 3 Extended Certificate in Business
We are proud to offer the BTEC National Level 3 Extended Certificate in Business, a dynamic and practical course designed to prepare students for the world of business and enterprise. This qualification provides a strong foundation in key business concepts and develops essential skills for further study or employment.
The course is assessed through a combination of internally assessed coursework and externally assessed units, ensuring a balance of practical application and theoretical understanding. Students will explore a wide range of topics, including:
- Business Environments – understanding how businesses operate and respond to change.
- Marketing – developing strategies to meet customer needs.
- Finance – learning how to manage and interpret financial information.
- Recruitment and Selection – gaining insight into how businesses attract and retain talent.
This qualification is ideal for students who enjoy applying knowledge to real-life scenarios and working collaboratively. Many pupils who have studied Business at GCSE choose to progress to this course, and those who complete the BTEC often go on to succeed in careers such as marketing, finance, management, and entrepreneurship, or continue their studies at university.
