What will I study?
Students will study the concepts and techniques that are used in managing and running a business. This course is designed for students who excel at coursework and enjoy applying theory to real-life situations.
Over the duration of the two years assessment is based on the following:
• Three coursework units marked internally
• One external assessment marked by AQA
• Two examinations with the option of a re-take for those students wishing to improve their grade.
In Year 12, the coursework involves studying how Merlin Entertainment, owner of Thorpe Park, is run. The externally assessed unit looks at how entrepreneurs identify anddevelop business opportunities, with the students creating their own idea. The examined topic is ‘Financial Planning and Analysis’ which involves exploring the financial issues that enterprises need to consider in order to be successful. In Year 13, the examined topic is ‘Managing and Leading People’ looking at how managers motivate and lead employees using different leadership styles. The two coursework units require students to create their own business idea, developing a business plan and a marketing communications plan.
Where will it lead?
There are many business-based university courses available. Business students often progress onto Business Management courses or specialise in an aspect of business such as Marketing. They may also choose to pursue an apprenticeship degree programme. General Applied Business develops a practical understanding of the way businesses operate and will therefore prepare students for a wide range of business related career paths.
Links with other courses:
Links with other courses Psychology and Sociology. The General Applied Business qualification is also useful for any student aspiring to reach management level in the public or private sector, or alternatively run their own business.
