School Life
Discover academic excellence, personal development, and a vibrant community at Ernest Bevin Academy.
Business Studies and Economics
The Business Studies and Economics curriculum at Ernest Bevin Academy is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of business concepts, economic principles, and their practical applications in the real world. Our aim is to develop students' analytical and critical thinking skills, preparing them for further education and future careers in business, finance, and economics.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9)
While Business Studies and Economics are not taught as separate subjects at Key Stage 3, relevant concepts are incorporated into other subjects such as Mathematics, Geography, and PSHE. Students are introduced to basic economic concepts, financial literacy, and enterprise skills through cross-curricular activities and special events.
Enterprise Days
Throughout Key Stage 3, students participate in Enterprise Days where they:
- Work in teams to develop business ideas
- Create simple business plans
- Design and market products or services
- Manage finances and calculate profits
- Present their ideas to peers and teachers
Key Stage 4 (Years 10-11)
At Key Stage 4, students can choose to study Business Studies as a GCSE option. We follow the Edexcel GCSE Business specification, which provides a comprehensive introduction to the world of business.
GCSE Business Studies
Year 10
- Theme 1: Enterprise and entrepreneurship
- Spotting business opportunities
- Putting a business idea into practice
- Making the business effective
- Understanding external influences
Year 11
- Theme 2: Growing the business
- Making marketing decisions
- Making operational decisions
- Making financial decisions
- Making human resource decisions
Assessment
GCSE Business Studies is assessed through two written examinations:
- Paper 1: Theme 1 - Investigating small business (50% of the qualification)
- Paper 2: Theme 2 - Building a business (50% of the qualification)
Key Stage 5 (Sixth Form)
In the Sixth Form, students can choose to study either A-Level Business Studies or A-Level Economics, or both. These qualifications build on the knowledge gained at GCSE level and provide a deeper understanding of business and economic concepts.
A-Level Business Studies
We follow the AQA specification, which covers:
- Business ownership and objectives
- Management, leadership and decision making
- Marketing strategies and tactics
- Operational management
- Financial planning and analysis
- Human resource management
- Strategic direction and implementation
A-Level Economics
We follow the Edexcel specification, which covers:
- Microeconomics: markets and market failure
- Macroeconomics: national and international economy
- Economic principles and theories
- Quantitative and qualitative economic analysis
- Economic policy and its applications
- Global economics and trade
Enrichment Opportunities
- Young Enterprise program for Year 10 and 12 students
- Student Investor Challenge
- Business and Economics Society
- Guest speakers from local businesses and financial institutions
- Visits to businesses, factories and financial districts in London
- Work experience placements with local business partners
How Parents Can Help
- Encourage awareness of current affairs and business news
- Discuss economic events and their impacts on daily life
- Support with revision using past papers and revision guides
- Encourage visits to business-related museums and exhibitions
- Discuss family budgets and financial planning where appropriate
- Support participation in enterprise activities and competitions
Useful Resources
Additional Resources
- GCSE Business Studies Revision Guide (Download PDF)
- A-Level Economics Key Terms (Download PDF)
- Young Enterprise Information Pack (Download PDF)