Business Studies

The Business Economics Department

An understanding of business and economics gives people a knowledge of how the local, national and global economy works. This has become increasingly important in the modern world and the ability to analyse economic issues, problems and institutions that affect everyday life more and more crucial. The aim of the Business Studies curriculum is to equip students with the appropriate knowledge and skills needed to develop their employability and identify business problems and opportunities. This is done through quality teaching which ensures students understand underlying economic and business theory, which students are able to apply to a variety of familiar and unfamiliar case studies. Students are taught to think analytically, reach logical conclusions based on data and make judgements on future changes to markets and the economy.

The Business Department is a vibrant, diverse and dynamic department staffed by dedicated Business and Economics specialists. With a shared passion for their subjects, the team is committed to inspiring students, raising aspirations and achieving the highest standards of teaching and learning. 

Business through the Key Stages

The Business Department delivers a range of syllabuses that are designed to encourage students to develop their thinking. From the outset they are encouraged to be proactive and to participate in a variety of situations which are designed to stimulate their imagination and encourage them to make informed decisions using their knowledge and understanding of the subject. The Business Department is all about reality and so learning resources are based on ‘real’ organisations and applying theory within those situations. In all courses, the curriculum is sequenced in order to hierarchically build their skills and knowledge. This allows students to accumulate and embed knowledge quickly and develop a real enthusiasm for the subject. The methods of carrying out calculations are consistent with what is learned in maths, strengthening students’ numeracy skills.

In Key Stage 4, students can study GCSE Business, developing their understanding of how businesses operate. In Key Stage 5, students can choose from A Level Business, Level 2 and Level 3 BTEC Business, and A Level Economics. This range of courses provides clear progression pathways and makes Business one of the most popular subject areas within the school. 

Key Stage 4 

Key Stage 4 curriculum helps students develop their understanding of the business world and build valuable analytical and decision-making skills.

GCSE Business (AQA)

Paper 1: Influences of operations and HRM on business activity
1 hour 45 minutes, 50% of GCSE

Paper 2: Influences of marketing and finance on business activity
1 hour 45 minutes, 50% of GCSE

Through the course, students apply business theory to real-world organisations and develop the skills needed for further study and future careers.

Key Stage 5 

A Level Business Studies (AQA 7138) – New specification from September 2026

A Level Business is a two-year linear course with examinations taking place at the end of Year 13. Throughout the course, students develop an understanding of how businesses operate, compete and make strategic decisions in a changing business environment. Regular assessments are completed at the end of each topic to monitor progress and prepare students for terminal examinations.

Course Content

Unit 3.1: What is Business? Managing Marketing and Finance

Unit 3.2: Managing People and Operations

Unit 3.3: Business and society, business and the external environment, and business strategy

Assessment

Paper 1: Unit 3.1 (2-hour written examination, 90 marks, 33.3%)

Paper 2: Unit 3.2, with links to Unit 3.1 (2-hour written examination, 90 marks, 33.3%)

Paper 3: Unit 3.3, with links to Units 3.1 and 3.2 (2-hour written examination, 90 marks, 33.3%)

The qualification is graded A to E*.

A-Level Economics (Pearson)

A Level Economics is a two-year linear course (Year 12 to Year 13) that explores how individuals, businesses and governments make economic decisions in both national and global contexts.

Assessment

Paper 1: Markets and Business Behaviour (2 hours, 35%)

Paper 2: The National and Global Economy (2 hours, 35%)

Paper 3: Microeconomics and Macroeconomics (2 hours, 30%)

BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Business

Unit 1: Exploring Business

Unit 2: Developing a Marketing Campaign (External Assessment)

Unit 3: Personal and Business Finance (External Assessment)

Unit 8: Recruitment and Selection Process

BTEC Level 2 Business

For students wishing to develop their business knowledge and skills at Level 2, we offer the BTEC Level 1/Level 2 First Award in Business.

 Curriculum Map 

Enrichment Opportunities 

Students are encouraged to extend their learning beyond the classroom through a wide range of enrichment activities, including business trips, guest speakers, Young Enterprise and the Business Club. These opportunities help students develop entrepreneurial skills, build confidence and gain valuable insights into the world of work.

For further information please contact us via email - schooladmin@bishopdouglass.barnet.sch.uk