Business Studies
Are you interested in how businesses run, make decisions, and succeed in a competitive world? Choosing Business for your GCSEs could be the perfect opportunity to learn about the exciting world of enterprise and management. In the Edexcel GCSE Business course, you’ll explore key topics such as how businesses operate, how they market their products, how they manage finances, and how they deal with challenges in a fast-paced environment.
Throughout the course, you'll develop a wide range of important skills—critical thinking, decision-making, problem-solving, and analytical skills. You'll learn how to assess situations, come up with creative solutions, and understand the impact of different decisions on a business's success. These skills will be valuable not just for your studies, but for your future career too.
After completing the course, you’ll have the foundation for many exciting career paths. Whether you're dreaming of becoming an entrepreneur, working in marketing, finance, management, or even working for a big corporation, the knowledge and skills you gain will open doors to a variety of job opportunities. You could go on to roles like a business analyst, marketing manager, or financial planner, or perhaps even start your own business.
What is our curriculum intention and purpose?
Our vision is to empower students with the knowledge, skills, and mindset to thrive in the dynamic world of business. Through this course, students will discover how businesses work and function in society. They will develop an entrepreneurial mindset, thinking creatively, solving problems, and making informed decisions.
The curriculum blends theory with real-world application. Students explore marketing, finance, operations, and human resources, while understanding the ethical and global challenges businesses face. They will learn to interpret data, evaluate strategies, and communicate ideas with confidence.
Beyond the classroom, we aim to spark curiosity and ambition through case studies, enterprise projects, and connections with local businesses. By the end of the course, students will not only be prepared for further study but also ready for future employment.
What is our learning journey?
How is the curriculum sequenced?
Our GCSE Business curriculum is designed to build knowledge step by step, starting with the foundations of what businesses are and why they exist, before moving into how they operate, market their products, manage finances, and motivate people.
Students begin by exploring business objectives and ownership, then progress to operations and marketing strategies, followed by finance, human resources, and the impact of global and ethical issues.
This logical sequence ensures learners develop confidence and critical thinking, applying theory to real-world contexts through case studies and enterprise projects - preparing them for success in exams, further study, and future careers.
What will my child experience in a typical Business Studies lesson?
In a GCSE Business lesson, your child will engage in a mix of discussion, problem-solving, and practical activities.
Lessons always start with a short knowledge recap or real-world news story to connect theory to current events. Students will engage with required content through interactive tasks like case studies, group debates, and data analysis. They’ll use real business examples to apply ideas, work on mini-enterprise challenges, and develop skills in decision-making and communication.
Each lesson aims to be dynamic, encouraging students to think critically, ask questions, and see how business shapes everyday life.
How do we assess progress?
We assess progress in GCSE Business through a combination of methods to ensure students develop both knowledge and skills. Regular low-stakes quizzes and knowledge checks help reinforce key concepts, while extended written tasks and case studies allow students to apply their understanding to real-world scenarios.
Formal assessments, including topic tests and mock exams, prepare students for the final GCSE examination. Feedback is given promptly so students know their strengths and areas for improvement, and progress is tracked against clear objectives throughout the course.
How do we extend and enrich our curriculum?
We extend and enrich our curriculum by going beyond the classroom to bring business to life. Students take part in enterprise projects, where they design and pitch their own business ideas, developing creativity and problem-solving skills. We use real-world case studies and current business news to connect theory to practice.
What higher education and career opportunities can this subject lead to?
GCSE Business opens doors to a wide range of higher education and career opportunities. Many students go on to study A-levels in Business, Economics, Law, or other related subjects, and later pursue degrees in areas such as Business Management, Marketing, Finance, Accounting, or Entrepreneurship. These pathways can lead to careers in diverse sectors including banking, retail, technology, consultancy, and international trade.
How can I support my child in Business Studies?
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Help your child make the most of their textbook by reviewing key sections together. Ask them to explain concepts in their own words. This reinforces understanding and builds confidence.
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Support your child by scheduling short sessions to work through past papers or sample questions. Discuss their answers and look at the mark schemes so they understand what examiners expect.
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Bring business to life by talking about companies you use every day - shops, online services, adverts, or news stories.
GCSE Content
| Year 10 Units of Study | Year 11 Units of Study |
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Theme 1: Investigating Small Business
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Theme 2 Building A Business
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The course is assessed through two exam papers at the end of Y11. Paper 1 covers theme 1 content, paper 2 covered theme 2 content. Both papers are 1 hour 45 minutes.