What is Business Studies?

Business Studies is a dynamic subject which prepares students for the challenges of the 21st Century by introducing them to the world of business. Business Studies is practical, applied and exciting.  Whether your aim is to pursue an academic career, train for a profession or become an entrepreneur the necessary knowledge and skills will be provided.
Aims:

The Business Studies Department aims to:

  • stimulate pupil curiosity, interest and enjoyment in Business Studies and related subjects.
  • enable pupils to be familiar with a body of business knowledge, principles, skills and vocabulary.
  • enable pupils to develop a range of desirable personal qualities such as perseverance, initiative and independence.
  • enable pupils to be able to work independently and as part of a team.
  • build confidence in pupils, encourage success and develop each pupil’s potential to enable those who wish to find employment or proceed to further education may do so.
  • develop ICT skills in Business Studies and Business and Communication Systems.

 

Teaching Staff

Mrs L Greer (Head of Department)

Mrs L Handley

 

At Glengormley High school we offer a range of Business related subjects at KS4 and KS5.  These subjects include:

 

Studying Business and Communication Systems will engage you in the study of business and digital technology and develop your practical skills in using software applications. You will have the opportunity to explore the changing role of digital technology in business and economic activities.

This specification will help you to develop a lifelong interest in and enjoyment of business subjects, while being inspired, moved and changed by following an exciting, enjoyable and worthwhile course.

 

 WHY STUDY BUSINESS AND COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS?

By studying this course you will:

  • study business activity and how ICT has changed the business environment;
  • develop as an effective and independent thinker with an enquiring mind;
  • have the opportunity to develop valuable practical ICT skills in a business context; and
  • use software applications to develop digital solutions to enhance business activities.

 

COURSE AT A GLANCE

 

Unit Areas of Study
Unit 1:

Software Applications for Business

You will study file management and the use of common applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, databases, web authoring, web browsing, email and presentation software.

This unit is assessed in Year 11 by a 2 hour computer-based examination that is worth 40% of the overall GCSE qualification

Unit 2:

The Business Environment

 

You will study recruitment, selection, training and marketing as well as the implications of digital technology for business.  In the context of the changing nature of business, you will consider different roles, including stakeholders and customers, and how best to communicate.

This unit is assessed in Year 12 by a 1 hour external written examination that is worth 35% of the overall GCSE qualification.

Unit 3:

Developing Digital Solutions

You will learn how to plan and develop a digital solution for a business through the use of software applications, planning and research.

This unit is assessed by a Controlled Assessment task that is worth 25% of the overall GCSE qualification

 

  • Occupational Studies

 

Unit 2 – Communication in the Business Environment

 

 

Unit 14 – Using Office Equipment

 

This unit is suitable for those who wish to gain a basic knowledge and understanding of administration practice together with the skills necessary to pursue careers as secretaries, administrators, receptionists, call centre personnel.

 

The unit is divided into three sections:

  1. Identify and show the purpose of major items of office equipment
  2. Use photocopier safely and effectively
  3. Use a computer to produce documents

 

Throughout the course you will:

  • learn how to operate and take care of office equipment
  • learn how to prepare and photocopy basic documents
  • develop proof reading skills and take pride in your work at all times
  • be made aware of the Health and Safety issues involved in using equipment and the need to use resources efficiently
  • develop and enhance IT skills within the office setting

 

 

 

  • BTEC First Award in Business

 

BTEC First Award in Business

Unit Content Assessment
1 Introduction to Business Internal Assessment
2 Business Finance Online Examination
3 Enterprise in the Business World Internal Assessment
6 Recruitment, Selection and Employment Internal Assessment

 

  • BTEC National Extended Certificate in Business

 

BTEC National Extended Certificate in Business

Unit Content Assessment
1 Enterprising Business Internal Assessment
2 Marketing Written Examination

Based on a Case Study

3 Personal and Business Finance Written Examination

(2 Hours)

8 Recruitment and Selection Internal Assessment

 

 

 

What can I do with a qualification in Business?

Business Studies is a totally relevant to the world in which we live.  Everyone is involved with business as an owner, employee or a customer.  Therefore, knowledge of Business or Business and Communication Systems makes a positive contribution to all career paths. More specifically the subject offers an excellent foundation for those wishing to pursue careers in:

  • Accounting
  • Agriculture
  • Advertising
  • Banker
  • Business Journalism
  • Law
  • Distribution/Logistics Manager
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Insurance
  • Human Resource Manager
  • Marketing Executive
  • Public Relations
  • Recruitment Consultant
  • Retail Manager
  • Sales Executive
  • Systems Analyst/IT Consultant

Knowledge of Business will be useful in any career where you are required to manage people or resources.

 

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Business Studies is a dynamic subject which prepares students for the challenges of the 21st Century by introducing them to the world of business. Although an academic subject, Business Studies is practical, applied and exciting.  Whether your aim is to pursue an academic career, train for a profession or become an entrepreneur the necessary knowledge and skills will be provided.
Aims:

The Business Studies Department aims to:

  • stimulate pupil curiosity, interest and enjoyment in Business Studies and related subjects.
  • enable pupils to be familiar with a body of business knowledge, principles, skills and vocabulary.
  • enable pupils to develop a range of desirable personal qualities such as perseverance, initiative and independence.
  • enable pupils to be able to work independently and as part of a team.
  • build confidence in pupils, encourage success and develop each pupil’s potential to enable those who wish to find employment or proceed to further education may do so.
  • develop ICT skills in Business Studies and Business and Communication Systems.

At Glengormley High school we offer a range of Business related subjects at GCSE and GCE levels.  These subjects include: