KS4 Business Studies

Aims of the course

The main focus is on the knowledge, understanding and skills required to research, plan, pitch and review an enterprise idea that includes:

• development of key skills that prove aptitude in planning an enterprise activity, including market research, planning, carrying out financial transactions, communication and problem-solving

• knowledge that underpins effective use of skills, such as the features and characteristics of enterprises and entrepreneurs, and the internal and external factors that can affect the performance of an enterprise

• attitudes and ways of working that are considered most important for enterprise, including monitoring and reflecting on performance of an enterprise idea and own use of skills.

The course requires students to apply their knowledge in practical ways, through activities that will enable them to develop their ideas, for example researching an idea for a small enterprise.

General Description

Component 1 - Exploring Enterprises (30% of the course)

Learning aims: A - Examine the characteristics of enterprises; B - Explore how market research helps enterprises to meet customer needs and understand competitor behaviour; C - Investigate the factors that contribute to the success of an enterprise.

Component 2 - Planning for and Pitching an Enterprise Activity (30% of the course)

Learning aims: A - Explore ideas and plan for a micro-enterprise activity; B - Pitch a micro-enterprise activity; C - Review own pitch for a micro-enterprise activity.

Component 3 - Promotion and Finance for Enterprise (40% of the course)

Assessment objectives: AO1 - Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of elements of promotion and financial records; AO2 - Interpret and use promotional and financial information in relation to a given enterprise; AO3 - Make connections between different factors influencing a given enterprise; AO4 - Be able to advise and provide recommendations to a given enterprise on ways to improve its performance

Assessment:

Components 1 and 2 are assessed internally through coursework, usually completed in Year One. Students complete assignments that are subject to external standards verification. Authorised assignment briefs are provided by Pearson.

Component 3 (40% of total marks): an external assessment completed at the end of Year Two. It comprises 40% of the total marks. The written assessment is set and marked by Pearson, and completed under supervised conditions. The assessment must be completed in 2 hours.