Business Studies

GCSE Business Studies

GCSE business studies is now established as a popular GCSE option at BGS, with three groups now timetabled in both Year 10 and Year 11. The course offers pupils the opportunity to understand and analyse the behaviour of firms in the economy by studying the AQA 'B' specification.  It looks at how important business decisions are made in a variety of organisations, including sole traders, multinational companies and public sector organisations, and the effects these decisions can have on the wider community.

The course aims to provide pupils with a basic knowledge of business theories and terminology, alongside a practical insight into decision-making and problem solving in a business context. The application of relevant business concepts and ideas is also encouraged to make sense of a range of topical issues. Assessment is by way of two final examinations and one piece of investigative coursework (25 % of the final mark).

GCSE business studies serves as a useful foundation for students wishing to study a related course in the Sixth Form, where both A Level business studies and A Level economics are established and popular subjects. Many students from BGS choose to study business – related degrees at university.  

Frequently Asked Questions

How many pupils choose to study GCSE business studies?
There are currently around 100 pupils studying the subject in Years 10 and 11, with three option groups in each year.

Is there coursework?
Yes. A piece of coursework is produced during the Autumn Term of Year 11. This is presented in the form of a 2,000 word (maximum) report into a marketing problem experienced by an actual business chosen by each pupil, and the final piece of work counts for 25% of your overall GCSE marks.

What are the final exams like?
There are two final exams at the end of Year 11, each contributing 37.5% of the final GCSE mark. Both papers involve questions based on a variety of business data and case study material provided, and each paper lasts for 75 minutes.

What skills are involved in GCSE business studies?
The course uses and develops a variety of skills, such as the application of theory, problem-solving, and written and verbal communication skills. Data interpretation and basic calculations are also involved, and pupils are expected to use evidence to justify their own arguments and evaluate the arguments of others.

What is the subject about?
The GCSE course introduces pupils to the world of business, analysing why businesses exist and how they become successful. It involves several areas of business behaviour, such as marketing, finance and production, and also looks at the skills and knowledge needed to set up and manage a business, such as financial management and managing people. The impact of a business on the wider world is also studied, involving a consideration of areas such as business ethics, law and the economy.

Is business studies useful?
Business studies is a subject which has immediate applications in the real world. A basic understanding of business concepts can help pupils to make sense of many news stories and current issues, and the skills developed can also be applied to most occupations, helping pupils understand how organisations work and how decisions are made.

What learning takes place beyond the classroom?
The department always tries to link the material we cover with businesses in the outside world. Year 10 pupils currently have the opportunity to visit the Cadbury factory in Birmingham during the Summer Term, and outside speakers are also involved in the course. Pupils are also encouraged to take a wider interest in the business world through relevant reading and research.

Do I need to choose the GCSE in order to study business studies or economics in the Sixth Form?
No, although pupils who have studied GCSE business studies will undoubtedly find this a great help on the AS business studies course. Economics is a separate subject taught within the department, and is somewhat different in nature to business studies.

For details of the GCSE curriculum please visit www.aqa.org.uk