Business Studies
Head of Department: Miss E Izegbu - e.izegbu.scs@osborne.coop
The Business department is committed to preparing students for the dynamic world of entrepreneurship, business and work. Our teachers understand that the majority of students will either own their own businesses or work for one. Therefore, a solid understanding of how businesses operate in local, national and global contexts will help to develop their employability.
Throughout studying Business and Enterprise at St Clere’s school, students are equipped with valuable, transferable skills. Our curriculum contextualises learning through the use of current businesses and problem-solving scenarios. Along with clearly defined subject knowledge, students will also develop key skills needed in business such as problem- solving, presentation, team working, negotiation and interview skills. The different qualifications offered cover a wide range of topics created to provide students with both the knowledge and understanding that underpins contemporary business and entrepreneurship. It is our aim as a department to provide an enriching and interactive learning experience for all students at all levels.
At KS4 level, students will investigate issues concerning starting up and operating a business. They will explore the activities of business key functions from marketing to human resources and from finance to production. Students will be able to discuss what is happening in the economy today, for example the impact that changes in interest rates or unemployment levels have on businesses and workers. Studying such contemporary topics helps students appreciate the value businesses hold in society which includes businesses engaging with a wide range of stakeholders who have differing perspectives.
Progression
A GCSE in Business Studies or a Cambridge National in Enterprise and Marketing enables students to understand more about the dynamic world of business which challenges and inspires students, allowing them to make well informed decisions about further study and career pathways.
Students can progress from both qualifications to a wide range of varying vocational and academic qualifications at Level 3, including A Levels in Business, Economics, Law, Psychology and BTEC Nationals in Business. Both the knowledge and skills acquired from studying GCSE Business or a Cambridge National in Enterprise and Marketing assists students’ entering into employment or training, such as apprenticeships and vocational qualifications which focus on more specific areas of business.
GCSE Course Study Breakdown (Key Stage 4)
The following content is delivered over years 9-11, but not necessarily in this order
Business 01: Business Activity, Marketing and People
Study Section 1 - Business Activity
1.1 The role of business enterprise and entrepreneurship
1.2 Business planning
1.3 Business ownership
1.4 Business aims and objectives
1.5 Stakeholders in business
1.6 Business growth
Study Section 2 - Marketing
2.1 The role of marketing
2.2 Market research
2.3 Market segmentation
2.4 The marketing mix
Study Section 3 - Marketing
3.1 The role of human resources
3.2 Organisational structures and different ways of working
3.3 Communication in business
3.4 Recruitment and selection
3.5 Motivation and retention
3.6 Training and development
3.7 Employment law
Business 02: Operations, Finance and Influences on Business
Study Section 4 - Operations
4.1 Production processes
4.2 Quality of goods and services
4.3 The sales process and customer service
4.4 Consumer law
4.5 Business location
4.6 Working with suppliers
Study Section 5 - Finance
5.1 The role of the finance function
5.2 Sources of finance
5.3 Revenue, costs, profit and loss
5.4 Break-even
5.5 Cash and cash flow
Study Section 6 - Influences on business
6.1 Ethical and environmental considerations
6.2 The economic climate
6.3 Globalisation
Study Section 7 - The Interdependent Nature of Business
Other Teachers of Business Studies
Mrs S Grimmond - s.grimmond.scs@osborne.coop
Mr S Rodway - s.rodway.scs@osborne.coop
Mrs C Shaughnessy - c.shaughnessy.scs@osborne.coop
Miss E White - e.white.scs@osborne.coop