Curriculum Statement for Business Studies:

GCSE Business Studies develops learners' understanding of business activity in the public and private sectors, and the importance of innovation and change. Students find out how the major types of business organization are established, financed and run, and how their activities are regulated. Factors influencing business decision-making are also considered, as are the essential values of cooperation and interdependence. Students study business concepts and techniques but also enhance related skills such as numeracy and enquiry. The syllabus provides both a foundation for further study at A Level and an ideal preparation for the world of work.

Business Studies is taught from Year 9 as an optional subject. Contents of Theme 1 and 2 have been sequenced and taught chronological to give students a deeper understanding of each topic and to develop students’ skills from a basic level.

Aims of the course:

• Students making effective use of relevant business terminology, concepts and methods, and recognise the strengths and limitations of the ideas used in business
• Applying their knowledge and critical understanding to current issues and problems in a wide range of business contexts
• Distinguish between facts and opinions, and evaluate qualitative and quantitative data to help build arguments and make informed judgements
• Appreciate the perspectives of a range of stakeholders in relation to the business environment, individuals, society, government and enterprise
• Develop knowledge and understanding of the major groups and organisations within and outside business, and consider ways in which they can influence objectives, decisions and activities
• Develop knowledge and understanding of how the main types of businesses are organised, financed and operated, and how their relations with other organisations, consumers, employees, owners and society are regulated
• Develop skills of numeracy, literacy, enquiry, selection and use of relevant sources of information, presentation and interpretation
• Develop an awareness of the nature and significance of innovation and change within the context of business activities.

Objectives:

• Students to understand different forms of business organisations, the environments in which businesses operate and business functions such as marketing, operations and finance
• Appreciate the role of people in business success.
• They will also gain lifelong skills, including:
• The ability to calculate and interpret business data
• Communication skills needed to support arguments with reasons
• The ability to analyse business situations and reach decisions or judgements.