Business: A Level

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Exam board: Edexcel

What is the course about?

There is a strong argument that in the future everyone will need to have had a business education. Whatever you do in your career, the chances are that it will involve some ‘business’. Scientists, engineers and artists will need to understand the basics of business – the combination of specialist qualifications and business knowledge will become vital to success. In business you make decisions, take action and monitor results- and each situation is different, not a textbook example. In this course you will learn about how to use business theory and concepts to explore and provide solutions to real business problems- and think of reasons as to why it might not work! Our teaching team at Leyton will bring enthusiasm and experience into the classroom, utilising a wide variety of learning techniques to maximise your chances of success.

 

Duration of course:

2 years.

 

What units/topics will be studied?

Across the 2 years, you will study:
What is a business? Managers, leadership and decision making. Decision making to improve marketing, financial, operation and human resource performance. Specifically on the A level, you will go on to study:

• How to analysing the strategic position of a business
• Choosing strategic direction
• How to pursue strategies
• Managing strategic change

There are 2 examined papers on the AS, each worth 80 marks and lasting 90 minutes. There are 3 examined papers on the A level, each worth 100 marks and lasting 120 minutes.

 

What do I need to study this subject?

A ‘G’ Score of 34.

 

What can I do to prepare myself to study this subject?

Read a quality newspaper and watch news programmes to keep yourself informed about current business issues. The Bottom Line on Radio 4 is excellent for looking at how business leaders think, while TV programmes such as The Dragons Den and The Apprentice give some idea of enterprise, and ideas.

 

Where can this lead me?

Business studies develops your ability to consider and analyse a business’s problems, and provide possible ways it can deal with them- while looking at the risks involved,  and provides a good insight into how to make business decisions. These abilities are highly valued by employers, and provide a springboard for further study on many degree programmes.

 

What are the enrichment opportunities as part of this subject?

We have a growing programme of activities beyond the classroom – over the last few years, Business students have: Gone on Business trips to China, France and the USA, Attended a Business Entrepreneurs conference in London. Participated in leadership days at the National Maritime Museum. Attended revision conferences run by senior examiners, with talks from entrepreneurs, to improve exam skills.