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Year 9 Options Process - Business 

Introduction

The world of business is fast-paced, exciting, and full of opportunities. At Leeds East Academy, our GCSE Business course equips students with the skills and knowledge to succeed in the modern economy. Whether they dream of starting their own company, working in a global corporation, or simply understanding how businesses function, this course provides a strong foundation for the future. 

Students will develop: 

  • Critical thinking and decision-making skills 
  • Knowledge of finance, marketing, and operations 
  • An understanding of business strategies and entrepreneurship 
  • The ability to analyse real-world business scenarios 

This qualification is highly valued by colleges, universities, and employers as it demonstrates the ability to think logically, analyse information, and apply knowledge in a business context. It is the perfect stepping stone for careers in business management, finance, marketing, and beyond. 

Course details

The GCSE Business course is designed to give students a real-world understanding of business concepts, decision-making, and entrepreneurship. The course is structured into two key themes, each covering important aspects of business operations, growth, and strategy. 

Theme 1: Investigating Small Business 
Students will learn how businesses start, grow, and compete. Key topics include: 

  • What makes a successful entrepreneur? 
  • How businesses identify and target customers 
  • The role of finance in launching and running a business 
  • How external factors (e.g., economic climate, technology) affect business success 

 Theme 2: Building a Business 
This section focuses on larger businesses and the challenges they face, including: 

  • How businesses expand and enter new markets 
  • The importance of leadership, management, and organizational structures 
  • Marketing strategies, branding, and customer engagement 
  • How businesses navigate ethical and global challenges 

This course is ideal for students who: 

  • Want to develop problem-solving, analytical, and business decision-making skills 
  • Are interested in entrepreneurship, marketing, and finance 
  • Want to pursue careers in business, management, or economics 

Progression beyond GCSE

The GCSE Business course is designed to prepare students for further education and real-world career opportunities. With businesses constantly evolving, this course ensures students are equipped with problem-solving, analytical, and financial skills that are in high demand. 

Career Prospects 

Business knowledge is useful in almost every industry. Students can pursue careers in: 

  • Entrepreneurship – Starting and managing a business 
  • Marketing – Understanding consumer behaviour and branding 
  • Finance – Working in banking, investing, or financial planning 
  • Human Resources – Managing people and company culture 
  • Retail & Sales – Working in commerce, e-commerce, or management 

By studying GCSE Business, students gain the skills to make informed decisions, manage resources, and understand the business world from a professional perspective. 

Where will the course take you?

The GCSE Business course provides students with a strong foundation in business principles, preparing them for further study and a wide range of career opportunities. The skills developed in this course critical thinking, problem-solving, decision-making, and financial literacy are highly valued in both academic and professional settings. 

What’s Next After GCSE Business? 

Students who complete this course may choose to progress to: 

  • A-Level Business – A deeper exploration of business strategies, global markets, and financial management. 
  • A-Level Economics – Focuses on economic theory, market forces, and government policies. 
  • BTEC Level 3 in Business – A coursework-based alternative that emphasizes real-world business applications. 
  • Apprenticeships in Business & Finance – Hands-on learning opportunities in sectors such as marketing, accounting, and management. 

Course structure and assessment

The course is divided into two key themes, each assessed through an externally examined written paper, making up 100% of the final grade. 

Exam & Assessment Details 

Paper 1 – Investigating Small Business (50%) 

  • 1 hour 30-minute written exam (90 marks) 
  • Multiple-choice, calculation, and case study-based questions 

Paper 2 – Building a Business (50%) 

  • 1 hour 30-minute written exam (90 marks) 
  • Scenario-based and extended response questions 

This course not only prepares students for future studies but also equips them with the skills needed to thrive in the modern business world. 

Further Information

Curriculum Leader: Mr Whiteley  

Contact email address: whiteley.j@whiteroseacademies.org 

Online links to resources or course documents: