Business GCSE
Students doing business GCSE learn six key functions of business including HR, finance, marketing and operations.
Students initially establish a foundational understanding of different ways to start and own a business, how to create a business plan, decide on a location and satisfy different stakeholders. This is then followed by an in-depth look at how the external environment (for example technology, legislation or the economic climate) can shape a business’s performance, its model and its ability to compete.
Students then look at how a business makes products through production processes, procurement and quality whilst keeping customers satisfied. Students learn that none of this is possible without human resource management and running an efficient organisational structure whilst recruiting, retaining, motivating and training employees.
In Year 11, students study marketing and the numerous ways of identifying, attracting and maintaining customers. An in-depth look at the marketing mix is carried out here. Students finally explore finance, where they learn about cash flow, income statements, break even and other key financial aspects of running a successful business.