A level Business is a dynamic and fascinating subject that encourages discussion and debate. You will have the opportunity to analyse different perspectives and develop your own informed opinions on current issues, gaining valuable insight into the world of trade and entrepreneurship.
The curriculum delves into real-world scenarios, for both small and large businesses, encouraging you to think critically and solve practical problems. You’ll examine case studies of well-known companies, analysing their financial strategies, marketing techniques, ethical dilemmas, operations, and human resource management. By exploring real-life examples, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how businesses operate in a competitive environment.
Business equips you with a versatile skill set that is highly sought after by universities and employers alike. You’ll develop strong analytical and critical thinking abilities, learn how to interpret data and master the art of making informed decisions. These transferable skills will prove invaluable in a wide range of future careers, regardless of your chosen path.
Topics studied
The syllabus covers a wide range of important business topics across 4 main themes. The course is assessed by examination at the end of the two years through three papers following these main themes, which are:
- Marketing and people
- Managing business activities
- Business decision and strategy
- Global business
Assessment
- Paper 1 (35%) on Themes 1 (Marketing and People) and 4 (Global Business)
- Paper 2 (35%) on Themes 2 (Managing Business Activities) and 3 (Business Decision and Strategy)
- Paper 3 (30%) which is synoptic
Academic enrichment
Students are encouraged to extend their learning beyond the classroom through opportunities such as the Harvard Global Case Competition, where teams analyse real-world business challenges, or Wildhearts Micro Tyco Competition, where groups seek to design an innovative solution to UN sustainability goals in their communities. Pupils can also enter national essay competitions from the likes of The Kings College Cambridge Entrepreneurship Lab, or The John Locke Institute.
