Key Stage Three

This subject is not taught at Key Stage Three.

Key Stage Four

GCSE Business Communications - AQA Code: 4134 - Specifications

Course Content - What Will I Study

• The importance of administration and how it supports the main functions of a business.
• The importance of recruiting, retaining and rewarding staff, and providing a safe working environment.
• The structure and importance of communication systems within a business.
• Using computer software in a business context; word processing, spreadsheets, databases, graphics, presentation software and web design.

How will my progress be tested and examined?

In class and for homework, students will work on real-life Business scenarios where they will be required to apply both theory and practical (ICT) skills.

This course is made up of three units:

• ICT Systems in Business. Written paper (1 hour examination) - 40% of GCSE Qualification.
• Using ICT in Business. A computer based examination (1.5 hours) - 35% of GCSE Qualification
• Investigating ICT in Business. Controlled Assessment. - 25% of GCSE Qualification

GCSE Business Studies - AQA Code: 4133 - Specifications

Course Content - What Will I Study

The course will provide an interesting insight into how businesses are set up and then run to become successful enterprises. The Course is both academic and practical and will cover:

• Issues involved in starting a business.
• How businesses market themselves.
• How businesses survive by managing their money carefully.
• Suitable ways a business might recruit and motivate staff.
• Different production methods available to businesses.

How will my progress be tested and examined?

In class and for homework, students will work on case studies to enhance their study skills and understanding. They will also take part in debates and presentations about issues in the business world.

The Course is made up of three units:

• Setting up a Business. Written paper (1 hour examination) - 40% of GCSE Qualification
• Growing as a Business. Written paper (1 hour examination) - 35% of the GCSE Qualification
• Investigating Businesses. (Controlled assessment) - 25% of GCSE Qualification

Progression - How will the study of Business benefit students’ future education and career?

• The study of Business gives students a good overall understanding of how business work.
• The courses will help students to understand how businesses are set up, how they are managed and how they respond to changes in the environment in which they work.
• This provides a good background for when students come to make decisions on a wide range of issues, from career choices to decisions about products and services they use on a daily basis.
• The skills developed in Business Studies will help students in all A Level subjects and in all jobs.
• Students will gain a wider understanding of the environments in which business operate and will provide an excellent foundation for any future career.
• The GCSE syllabus courses will count towards the GCSEs needed to begin A level study.
• Both Business and ICT A levels and Business Management Pre U would be ideal progression routes at A level based on the Business and Communication Systems GCSE.
• Business, and Business Management Pre U would be ideal progression routes at A Level based on the Business GCSE.

Competitions

Our students are able to be involved in the following competitions:

• The Real Business Challenge
  http://www.therealexperience.co.uk/
  • All Year 10 Business and Business Communication System pupils take part in this National competition in the Autumn Term.
• Tycoon in Schools
  http://www.tycooninschools.com/
  • This national competition is open to all Coloma pupils from Years 7-13 (and not just Business students). In 2015 a Coloma team were invited to an awards ceremony held at Buckingham Palace by HRH Prince Andrew and Peter Jones.