Departmental Staff
- Mrs Maria McKenna (Head of Department)
- Mr Fearghal Quinn
- Mrs Corona McMorrow
Department Overview
Our vision in the Business Studies department is to inspire confident, analytical thinkers who understand the dynamic nature of the global economy and act with integrity and responsibility.
We aim to equip pupils with essential knowledge and practical skills across key areas such as finance, marketing, and enterprise, enabling them to make informed decisions in real-world contexts. Through engaging and relevant learning experiences, we encourage pupils to think critically, solve problems creatively, and develop resilience in the face of challenge. With a strong focus on innovation and leadership, our curriculum nurtures entrepreneurial thinking and a proactive mindset.
Pupils are empowered to explore opportunities within an increasingly interconnected marketplace, gaining awareness of global issues and ethical considerations. By fostering ambition and curiosity, we prepare our learners not only for academic success but also to thrive as adaptable, responsible individuals who can make a meaningful and positive contribution to the business world and associated professions.
Key Stage 4 - Overview
Business Studies
Skills Developed
This specification gives students the opportunity to develop and generate evidence for assessing the following nationally recognised Key Skills: Application of number, Communication, Improving Own Learning and Performance, Information and Communication Technology, Problem-Solving; and Working with Others.
Business Communication
Skills Developed
Practical ICT skills, communication, analysis, evaluate and make reasoned judgements and present conclusions, problem solving and working with others.
Post 16
CCEA A Level Business Studies
Skills Developed
This qualification explores key business topics affecting modern society. Students study the diverse na-ture of organisations and focus on three core issues: globalisation, digital technology, and stakeholder influence. The course develops decision-making, critical thinking, and analytical skills for further study or employment in business.
Aims
Students will:
- Develop an interest in business and the global marketplace
- Understand organisation and their relationship with stakeholders
- Evaluate the role of technology in business
- Create solutions to business problems and consider ethical issues
- Build study, decision-making, and problem-solving skills for higher education
Careers Opportunities
Business Studies can lead to further study and careers in areas such as accountancy, law, banking, finance, insurance, media, business analysis, property, quantity surveying, biomedical sciences, actuarial mathematics, or starting a business.
Course Summary
| Module | Title | Assessment | Weighting |
| AS1 | Introduction to Business | External written paper | 50% AS
20% A2 |
| AS 2 | Growing the Business | External written paper | 50% AS
20% A2 |
| A2 1 | Streategic Decision Making | External written paper | 30% A2 |
| A2 2 | The Competitive BusinessEnvironment | External written paper | 30% A2 |
Business Extended Certificate (OCR)
This qualification is the equivalent of one A-Level.
It will provide learners with the opportunity to develop the core specialist knowledge, skills and understanding required in the business sector through applied learning.
Course Summary
Learners will take 5 units; three mandatory units and two optional units.
| Content | Assessment | Weighting |
| Unit 1: The Business Environment | External Written Exam - 2 hours | 33.3% of Extended Certificate |
| Unit 2: Working in Business | External Written Exam - 1 1/2 hours | 16.6% of Extended Certificate |
| Unit 3: Customers and Communications | Internal Assessment | 16.6% of Extended Certificate |
| Unit 5: Marketing and Market Research | Internal Assessment | 16.6% of Extended Certificate |
| Unit 8: Introduction to Human Resources | Internal Assessment | 16.6% of Extended Certificate |
Beyond the Classroom
Our Business Studies department offers valuable field trip opportunities to support research for GCSE Controlled Assessment and OCR Cambridge Technicals in Business. These visits allow pupils to engage with real businesses, gaining first-hand insight into operations, decision-making, and market environments.
Students also benefit from input by industry specialists who deliver focused sessions on key topics across CCEA GCSE Business Studies and Business & Communication Systems, GCE Business Studies, and OCR Cambridge Technicals in Business.
These experiences enhance classroom learning, deepen subject understanding, and develop essential research and analytical skills. By connecting theory to practice, pupils are better prepared for assessments and future pathways in business-related fields.