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Business =1 A Level

BTEC Level 3 Business (Extended Certificate) is a practical, work‑related course designed for students who want to understand how businesses operate in dynamic environments. You’ll explore key business concepts and apply them to real organisations through coursework and real‑world scenarios.

This course is ideal if you prefer coursework and applied learning and want to develop skills that prepare you for further study or employment in business.

Business =1 A Level
Qualification
BTEC
Exam Board
Pearson
Duration
2 years

Why study Business =1 A Level at St Brendan’s?

This course allows you to develop a strong understanding of how businesses operate while applying knowledge to realistic scenarios. You’ll gain practical experience through case studies, group work and assignments based on workplace situations.

It’s ideal for students who enjoy applied learning and want to develop employability skills alongside academic knowledge.

Entry requirements

  • 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above
  • GCSE English Language or English Literature at grade 4 or above
  • GCSE Maths at grade 4 or above
  • GCSE Business at grade 4 (if taken)

Course examination breakdown

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Exams

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Course work

What else do I need to know?

5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above

GCSE English Language or English Literature at grade 4 or above

GCSE Maths at grade 4 or above

GCSE Business at grade 4 (if taken)

You will study a four‑unit Extended Certificate over two years, covering key areas of business and applying them to selected organisations.

Learning focuses on understanding business environments and applying knowledge in realistic contexts.

skillsDeveloped

Understanding of business operations and environments

Analytical and problem‑solving skills

Communication and presentation skills

Independent working and meeting deadlines

You will learn through:

Case studies

Group work and presentations

Assignments based on realistic workplace situations

Teaching is delivered by experienced staff with business backgrounds, helping you connect theory to real‑world practice.

Assessment is through a combination of:

Internally assessed coursework assignments

Externally assessed units set and marked by the exam board

Students have two opportunities to take external assessments. Final grades are awarded as Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction*.

IT facilities and internet access

Textbooks and case studies

Business documents and resources

Links with real businesses

Students are charged for printing during the course.

There may also be costs associated with purchasing reliable storage devices to back up electronic work.

In addition, trips and visits may be arranged, and students will be required to contribute towards these costs.

This course can be combined with a wide range of subjects. Students should consider their overall workload and ensure a balanced programme of study.

This qualification is valued by employers and higher education institutions and carries the same UCAS points as an A Level.

It supports progression into:

Business‑related degrees

Apprenticeships

Careers in accounting, administration, customer service, finance, HR, marketing, IT and sales

Students benefit from:

Visits to local businesses

Guest speakers from industry

Opportunities to apply for the Careers Ready programme

These experiences help you understand how business concepts are applied in real‑world contexts.

Progression opportunities

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