Business Studies
Course details
| Course | Exam board | Size |
| Level 3 Extended Certificate in Business | Edexcel | 1 A-Level (360 GLH) |
| Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Business | Edexcel | 1.5 A-Levels (540 GLH) |
Course Overview
The BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Business is a practical, career-focused qualification designed to give students a solid understanding of how businesses operate and succeed. Equivalent to one A Level, it combines real-world business theory with hands-on projects and assessments that develop key skills for higher education or employment. Students who progress particularly well in this subject may be offered the opportunity to complete the Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Business, equivalent to 1.5 A-Levels. The units for this course will be discussed by your tutor.
Students explore how businesses are established, financed, managed, and marketed, gaining insight into both small enterprises and large global organisations.
Assessment Overview
The qualification is made up of four units, of which three are mandatory and two are externally assessed.
| Unit | Title | Assessment Type | Weighting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unit 1 | Exploring Business | Internal (coursework) | 25% |
| Unit 2 | Developing a Marketing Campaign | External (controlled assessment) | 25% |
| Unit 3 | Personal and Business Finance | External (exam) | 33% |
| Unit 8 | Recruitment and Selection Process (chosen optional unit) | Internal (coursework) | 17% |
Core (Mandatory) Units
- Unit 1 – Exploring Business
Students investigate how businesses are structured and operated, considering different ownership types, stakeholders, and aims. This unit builds foundational understanding of business environments and the impact of external factors. - Unit 2 – Developing a Marketing Campaign
This unit focuses on marketing strategies. Students research target markets, consider financial and creative aspects, and then design a campaign for a specific business scenario. - Unit 3 – Personal and Business Finance
A key unit that helps students understand how to manage personal finances and analyse the financial health of a business. Topics include cash flow, profit and loss, and sources of finance.
Optional Unit (Chosen by School)
- Unit 8 – Recruitment and Selection Process
This practical unit involves creating job descriptions, running mock interviews, and evaluating the recruitment process. It develops essential employability and communication skills relevant to HR and management roles.
Skills Developed
Students will gain:
- A deep understanding of how businesses operate in local, national, and global contexts.
- Analytical and problem-solving skills through case studies and applied tasks.
- Experience in planning, decision-making, and financial management.
- Communication, presentation, and teamwork skills essential for business success.