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A-Level Business is an exciting and dynamic subject that involves studying how and why business decisions are made.

You will explore the main functions of a business (such as operations, finance, human resources and marketing) and look at how businesses might be affected by the external environment.

It is one of the most varied and interesting subjects available and is very well regarded by both employers and universities. Business would be a great course choice for any student considering a professional career or running a business.

You will gain a thorough understanding of how organisations operate, alongside developing a wide range of skills including analytical and critical thinking skills, problem solving, decision making and logical thinking. You will also develop strong oral and written communication skills.

10% of the course is quantitative, so numerical skills are developed throughout the course in the context of a Business.

Entry Criteria

6 in GCSE Business OR 6 in GCSE English Language and 5 in GCSE Mathematics.

Companion Subjects

Law

Mathematics

Psychology

Sociology

English Language

3D Design

Career Paths

  • Marketing

  • Advertising

  • Finance

  • Human Resources

  • Management

  • Accounting

  • Retail

  • Sales 

  • Public Relations

  • Journalism

Subject Intent

A-Level Business at St Wilfrid’s is all about understanding how the real business world works—from the small start-ups to the global giants.
Our students develop the skills and confidence to think like entrepreneurs, analyse real business scenarios, and make well-informed decisions.
We aim to inspire curiosity about how businesses respond to change, meet customer needs, and make strategic choices.
This course is a fantastic springboard into a wide range of careers and further study, and we’re here to support every step of the journey.

Course Overview

Year 12 (AS content)

  • What is business? – Business objectives, forms, and the external environment
  • Managers, leadership and decision making – Leadership styles, decision-making models, and stakeholder relationships
  • Marketing management – Understanding markets, customers, segmentation, the marketing mix, and digital marketing
  • Operational management – Setting objectives, improving quality, efficiency, supply chains, and lean production
  • Financial management – Budgets, break-even, sources of finance, profitability, and cash flow
  • Human resource management – Motivation, organisation, recruitment, and employee relations

Year 13 (A2 content)

  • Analysing the strategic position of a business – SWOT, financial ratios, market trends, and external influences
  • Choosing strategic direction – Ansoff Matrix, market positioning, and competitive advantage
  • Strategic methods – Growth strategies, innovation, globalisation, and digital transformation
  • Managing strategic change – Organisational culture, leadership, resistance to change, and strategic implementation

Assessment

Students sit three exams at the end of Year 13:

  • Paper 1: Business 1 – 2 hours, 100 marks, 33.3%
  • Paper 2: Business 2 – 2 hours, 100 marks, 33.3%
  • Paper 3: Business 3 – 2 hours, 100 marks, 33.3%

Each paper includes multiple choice, data response, and extended answer questions, with real-world business case studies wherever possible.

Homework & Independent Study

Students are encouraged to keep up with business news and apply their learning to current affairs.
Weekly homework includes exam-style questions, research tasks, revision notes, and case study analysis.
We also recommend using online platforms, podcasts, and articles to stay connected to the business world.

Enrichment Opportunities

We offer a range of experiences beyond the classroom:

  • Guest speakers from business and enterprise backgrounds
  • Business simulation games and workshops
  • Trips to local and national businesses
  • Support clinics and exam skills sessions
  • Entry into national competitions such as Young Enterprise or the BASE Challenge

Where Can Business Take You?

A-Level Business prepares students for a wide range of exciting opportunities—from apprenticeships to degrees in business, marketing, economics, law, and beyond. It’s ideal for aspiring entrepreneurs, future managers, or anyone interested in understanding how the world of work really functions.

The skills developed—critical thinking, problem solving, data analysis, and communication—are valuable in almost any career path.

Curriculum Content 

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