A-level Business

A LEVEL AQA 7138

Course Contact: Andy Major – andrewmajor@kba.uk

 

WHAT WILL I NEED BEFORE TAKING THIS COURSE?

Students with an interest in Business are encouraged to apply. GCSE English and Maths are desirable, as they provide a strong foundation for the course, but all applications will be considered on their individual merits.

 

WHAT WILL I DO?

Business is a dynamic and engaging subject with real-world relevance. You will explore how businesses start, grow and compete, while developing essential skills in critical thinking, problem-solving and decision-making.

Through topics such as marketing, finance and management, you will learn to analyse situations, evaluate options and make informed recommendations. You will also investigate how businesses respond to opportunities and challenges in an increasingly competitive global environment.

You will gain an understanding of how businesses operate and respond to economic, technological and social changes. The course develops confidence, commercial awareness and leadership skills, preparing you for further study, apprenticeships or employment in a wide range of sectors.

 

WHO IS THE COURSE FOR?

Anyone with an interest in business, how organisations operate and the world of work. The course is particularly suited to students who enjoy exploring real-world business issues, discussing current affairs, analysing information and making decisions.

You do not need to have studied Business at GCSE to take this course.

COURSE CONTENT AND COMPONENTS

Students will explore five key areas of business:

  • Marketing and market research
  • Finance and accounting
  • Human resource management
  • Operations and production
  • Business strategy and decision-making

Students will investigate real businesses, including companies such as Apple, Tesla, Nike and Amazon, exploring how they respond to opportunities, competition and changing market conditions.

 

ASSESSMENT AND FEEDBACK

The AQA A-Level Business qualification is assessed through three written examinations at the end of Year 13.

  • Paper 1: Business 1 (33.3%)
  • Paper 2: Business 2 (33.3%)
  • Paper 3: Business 3 (33.3%)

Students will develop their ability to analyse business information, interpret financial data, evaluate different options and justify recommendations using evidence.

The course encourages students to apply their knowledge to real business situations and develop the critical thinking, problem-solving and decision-making skills needed to succeed in examinations and beyond.

 

PROGRESSION – WHAT CAN I DO AT THE END OF THE COURSE?

A Level Business provides an excellent foundation for further study, apprenticeships and careers across a wide range of sectors.

Possible university courses include:

  • Business Management
  • Marketing
  • Economics
  • Accounting and Finance
  • Human Resource Management
  • International Business

It also provides opportunities for careers in management, entrepreneurship, banking, consultancy, retail, marketing and many other business-related sectors.

The transferable skills developed throughout the course, including communication, leadership, problem-solving and decision-making, are highly valued by universities and employers.

 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Students with an interest in Business are encouraged to apply. GCSE English and Maths are desirable, as they provide a strong foundation for the course, but all applications will be considered on their individual merits.

Useful websites and links

Students are encouraged to keep up to date with current business developments and use additional resources to support their understanding of the subject.

  • BBC Bitesize Business: https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/zpsvr82 – Useful background knowledge and revision support.

  • BBC Business News: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business – Latest business, financial and economic news.

  • Tutor2u Business: https://www.tutor2u.net/business – A Level Business revision notes, videos, case studies and examination guidance.

  • Revision World: https://revisionworld.com/ – Revision materials and examination practice.

  • Cadbury: https://www.cadbury.co.uk/ – Explore a well-known business and consider its products, branding and marketing.

  • Apple: https://www.apple.com/uk/ – Explore global business strategy, product development and marketing.

  • Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/ – Consider e-commerce, operations, customer service and business growth.

  • AQA Business: https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/business/a-level/business-7138 – Official specification and examination information.

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