BTEC Business Studies

• BTEC - Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Business

• Pearsons

• Entry requirements: GCSE Grade 5 in English, GCSE Grade 5 in Maths

• Goes well with: Maths, Media, Young Enterprise Scheme

Equivalent to 1 A Level - The Extended Certificate is for students who are interested in learning about the business sector alongside other fields of study, with a view to progressing to a wide range of higher education courses, not necessarily in business-related subjects. It is designed to be taken as part of a programme of study that includes other appropriate BTEC Nationals or A Levels.

Year 1

Unit 1: Exploring business

In this unit, you will gain an overview of the key ingredients for business success, how businesses are organised, how they communicate, the characteristics of the environment in which they operate, and how this shapes them and their activities. You will also look at the importance of innovation and enterprise to the success and survival of businesses, with the associated risks and benefits.

Method of assessment: report writing and presentations

Unit 2: Developing a marketing campaign

You will examine the marketing aims and objectives for existing products/services and understand the importance of relevant, valid and appropriate research in relation to customers’ needs and wants. You will use given market research data and other information to make recommendations about the type of marketing campaign that a business should undertake.

Method of assessment: controlled assessment under exam conditions

Year 2

Unit 3: Personal and Business Finance

This unit includes aspects of both personal and business finance. Personal finance involves the understanding of why money is important and how managing your money can help prevent future financial difficulties. The business finance aspects of the unit introduce you to accounting terminology, the purpose and importance of business accounts and the different sources of finance available to businesses. Measuring the financial performance of a business will require you to prepare and analyse statements of comprehensive income and statements of financial position.

Method of assessment: written examination

Unit 8: Recruitment and Selection Process

This unit will give you a foundation for progression to employment, for example in a human resources role, or to higher education. Through undertaking recruitment activities the unit will help you to develop the skills needed in an interview situation. You will have an opportunity to review your individual performance and analyse your skills for development.

Method of assessment: Report writing, role-play and self-evaluation