Qualification: A Level Business
Exam Board: Edexcel
A Level Business is a dynamic and engaging course that explores how organisations operate, compete and grow in an ever-changing world. You will study key areas such as marketing, finance, operations, human resources and strategic decision-making, while analysing real businesses and current events. The course develops valuable skills in problem-solving, communication and critical thinking, making it an excellent choice for students interested in entrepreneurship, management, economics or a wide range of business-related careers and university courses.
• Students explore how businesses operate, compete, and grow in both national and global markets. The course introduces key areas such as marketing, finance, operations, human resources, and entrepreneurship through engaging real-world business contexts.
• As the course progresses, students develop a deeper understanding of business strategy, decision-making, leadership, and the impact of external economic influences on organisations. Globalisation and international business are also explored in detail.
• Lessons regularly use current affairs, business case studies, and data analysis to help students apply theory to real commercial situations. Students are encouraged to think critically, challenge assumptions, and evaluate different business perspectives.
• The course develops highly transferable skills including analytical thinking, problem-solving, research, communication, numerical analysis, and evidence-based decision-making — all of which are highly valued by universities and employers.
Theme 1: Marketing and People
Theme 2: Managing Business Activities
Theme 3: Business Decisions and Strategy
Theme 4: Global Business
Assessment procedures include all 4 themes being assessed over 3 exams.
Students sit the exams at the end of the course.
Grade 6 in GCSE Business (if taken)
OR
L2 Merit in BTEC Business
OR
Grade 5 in GCSE Maths.
Grade 5 in GCSE English
• Students are encouraged to develop their understanding of business beyond the classroom through independent research and engagement with current business issues.
• This may include following business news, researching case studies, and bringing relevant examples or articles into lessons. Successful students are expected to be independent learners who can apply business theory to real-world contexts.
This qualification is useful for a wide range of university degree courses, including most Humanities subjects .
Specific degree pathways include Business Management, Business Administration, Accounting and Finance, Marketing, and Human Resources.
Good apprenticeships for Business A-Level students in the UK include degree apprenticeships in finance, marketing, management, and consulting with companies like HSBC, Lloyd’s of London, and Unilever, which let students earn a salary while gaining qualifications and work experience. Degree apprenticeships are becoming increasingly popular because they combine university study with real business experience and avoid student debt.
This course is an excellent grounding for progression on to business related work including self-employment, for example roles in marketing, finance, human resourses, public relations, business operations, entrepreneurship and more.
Year 13 Student
I am studying A levels in English Literature and Language, Geography and Business Studies. The balance of freedom and lessons here at Coombe Sixth Form has allowed me to find out how I work best and the staff have encouraged me along my journey, helping me discover what I'd like to do in the future - I hope to study Theology at University before entering the Youth Ministry or teaching.