BTEC Business First Certificate
Business Studies is an optional subject for students in Years’ 10 and 11.
The Business Studies course is designed to give pupils an understanding of what different types of business structures exist and their activities. Pupils will also learn what is involved in setting up a business, and the opportunities presented by the Internet for businesses.
It includes business theory and uses real-world examples to give a sense of relevance and purpose.
BTEC qualifications offer pupils to achieve at 3 levels; a pass, a merit grade or for high achievers a distinction grade.
This ‘First Certificate’ course is equivalent to 2 GCSE qualifications and takes 180 learning hours including homework tasks, spread over the 2 years.
Pupils will study one 1 core unit called ‘Exploring Business Purposes’ which lets pupils learn about different aims of businesses and the different ways businesses are organised and run; it is important for pupils to grasp why there are various ways to organise a business and to why it is important to know what the aims are for any business.
There are also two specialist units, selected from a range of options. Currently these are:
- Doing Business online (on the web)
- Exploring business enterprise (how to set up a business)
Assessment:
The course is assessed solely on the basis of the coursework produced; there is no exam. BTEC coursework produced in class and at home is assessed and then independently moderated, to give the pupil a final grade based on the quality and completeness of their work.
Progression: Where will this lead me?
The course will allow for pupils wishing to study Business further and/or to apply for employment in a business, e.g. in finance, administration, marketing and retail environments.
Pupils may use the qualification to progress to a level 3 BTEC Business course, or with other appropriate qualifications they may choose to move on to study A level in Business Studies.
