Specification = BUSINESS STUDIES AQA AS 5131 A 6131

Business Studies is not just about learning how to set up and run a business, although that is part of it. Students learn about all aspects of business life, from accountancy and operations management to human resources. Students learn in a relaxed atmosphere at a pace which suits them using a range of teaching and learning styles. We play games and have discussions and quizzes as well as using computer simulations to bring the world of business to the classroom. Young Enterprise also plays a real part in our work; this year we have opted to join a series of `master classes' and are looking forward to our first one on 'entrepreneurship'. Students will also visit businesses in the area to give them a insight into the real world of business.

Business Studies A level consists of 6 units. Three units are studied at AS level and three at A2 level.

The AS units are:

Unit 1 Accounting, Finance and Marketing

Unit 2 People and Operations Management

Unit 3 External Influences and Objectives and strategies

These lead to the modular examinations: BUS 1, BUS2 and BUS3 respectively. Each examination is one hour in length. BUS I is based on a previously unseen case study of approximately 500 words. BUS2 and BUS3 are based on a pre-seen case study of approximately 2500 words.

At A2 level units 4, 5 and 6 revisit the same topics as AS level but in more depth and at a more global level. These lead to the modular examinations BUS4 and BUS6 whereby BUS4 examines knowledge in units 4 and 5 and BUS6 examines knowledge across all units. BUS5C is written coursework which can be based on a topic chosen the students, for example starting a new business or launching a new product. Alternatively pupils can take BUSW which is a written synoptic paper.

Business Studies is not an easy option but by undertaking the course students have the opportunity of learning skills that will stand them in good stead in later life. It should be viewed as a bridge to the future. The course should lay the foundation for further study of Business Studies (or related subjects) in Higher Education. The material studied would be useful for students intending to pursue careers in any area of business.

Business Studies is not offered within the school at GCSE level, therefore any students intending to study A level Business Studies should have reasonably good GCSE grades in other subjects. Maths GCSE forms a good background for the Accounting and Finance part of the work.

This subject is studied to AS level leading to A level through the AQA Board. The level demanded for the AS examination is that expected of students half-way through a full A level course of study. In AS and A level examinations the material provided may be written, numerical or graphical. It may be drawn from newspapers or other real-world sources such as magazines and annual reports of Companies.

Business Studies relates to several GCSE subjects, such as Geography and Technology. It helps to have good IT skills but this is not essential. It also helps to take an interest in the business sections of newspapers and to talk to people who are already involved in business. Their knowledge and enthusiasm might help to 'bridge the gap' between the World of Education and the World of Work.