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Business

Assessment: Three written exams: Paper 1 (Unit 3.1), Paper 2 (Unit 3.2, may use 3.1), and Paper 3 (Unit 3.3, all units).
Exam Board: AQA
Duration: 2 Years
Costs: Approximately £150 per year for any educational trips. Textbook approximately £40 + calculator
Entry Requirements: English Language Grade 5, Maths Grade 5, plus six Grade 4 or above from your remaining subjects.
Curriculum Leader: June Hogan

COURSE OVERVIEW

A Level Business develops analytical, strategic and financial understanding of how organisations operate in an increasingly complex and competitive global environment. Students explore real-world business issues, develop quantitative skills, and learn how to apply theory to contemporary case studies.

The course builds confident, commercially aware learners who can think critically, evaluate decisions and construct well-argued responses - skills highly valued by universities and employers.

Why Choose A Level Business?

Develop real-world analytical and financial skills Build confidence in structured argument and evaluation Gain commercial awareness and strategic thinking Access strong progression routes to university and employment Study a subject that is dynamic, contemporary and relevant A Level Business is ideal for students who are curious about how organisations operate, enjoy debate and analysis, and want to understand the forces shaping today’s global economy.

Enrichment & Employer Engagement

Students benefit from a wide range of enrichment opportunities, which may include:

University business workshops, Employer guest speakers, Enterprise and marketing competitions, Industry visits and business conferences, Leadership and debate societie,s These experiences enhance commercial awareness and provide insight into progression routes beyond college.

COURSE STRUCTURE

Unit 3.1 – What is Business? Managing Marketing and Finance Students develop a strong foundation in: The purpose and nature of business Market structures and competition Marketing strategy and positioning Financial performance, ratio analysis and investment appraisal Quantitative skills and calculations

Unit 3.2 – Managing People and Operations This unit explores internal business decision-making, including: Human resource management and motivation theories Leadership and organisational culture Operational efficiency and productivity Quality management and capacity utilisation

Unit 3.3 – Business in the Wider World Students examine strategy and the external environment, including: Business and society External influences (economic, political, technological and competitive factors) Corporate objectives and strategic growth Strategic analysis tools and implementation 

LIFE AFTER HENLEY

Progression Routes

A Level Business provides an excellent foundation for progression to: Business Management, Marketing, Finance and Accounting, Economics, Entrepreneurship, Human Resource Management, International Business, Law and Politics, Students also progress into higher and degree apprenticeships in business, finance, marketing and management.

Career Pathways

Business opens doors to a wide range of careers, including: Marketing Executive, Financial Analyst, Business Consultant, Entrepreneur, Operations Manager, Human Resources Manager, Investment Banker, Management Trainee, The analytical, evaluative and quantitative skills developed on this course are transferable across many professional sectors.

ENRICHMENT

Students are required to complete at least 50 hours of enrichment per academic year whilst studying at The Henley College, learn more about Enrichment here.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Learn more about our application process here.