Introduction

The Business Studies department at Forest Hill School aims to provide a curriculum that inspires students and promotes the development of transferable skills in communication, presentation, teamwork and ICT. Students gain hands-on experience and have the opportunity to focus on specific topics such as human resources, marketing, accounting and business planning.

Students who study Economics and Finance develop the knowledge and skills needed to understand and analyse data, think critically about issues and make informed decisions. They also build upon their quantitative skills and appreciate that, when evaluating arguments, both qualitative and quantitative evidence are important.

Business Studies Curriculum Map

Business Studies at Key Stage 4

The Business Studies GCSE enables students to know and understand business concepts, business terminology, business objectives, the integrated nature of business activity and the impact of business on individuals and wider society. Students will apply knowledge and understanding to contemporary business issues and to different types and sizes of businesses in local, national and global contexts. They will develop as enterprising individuals with the ability to think commercially and creatively to demonstrate business acumen, and draw on evidence to make informed business decisions and solve business problems.

Edexcel GCSE Business Specification

Business Studies at Key Stage 5

At Key Stage 5, the Business Studies department facilitates a range of courses:

A Level Economics

Economics is the study of scarcity. As a subject, it is concerned with trying to get the most out of the limited resources the earth has in order to best satisfy its population. It is divided into two parts: microeconomics is the study of individual markets and the behaviour of consumers and producers and macroeconomics is the study of the economy as a whole. Our approach to Economics is to apply economic theory to support analysis of current economic problems and issues, and encourage students to appreciate the interrelationships between microeconomics and macroeconomics.

AQA AS and A Level Economics Specification

BTEC Level 1/2 Diploma in Business

This is a bridging course for post Year 11 students, which allows them to enhance their GCSE subject portfolio and make the next step towards Sixth Form or college. BTECs are vocationally-related qualifications, where learners develop knowledge and understanding by applying their learning and skills in a work-related context. They are popular and effective because they enable learners to take responsibility for their own learning and to develop skills that are essential for the modern-day workplace. These skills include: teamworking; working from a prescribed brief; working to deadlines; presenting information effectively; and accurately completing administrative tasks and processes.

BTEC Business Specification

Level 3 Cambridge Technicals: Extended Certificate or Diploma in Business

The Cambridge Technicals are vocational qualifications for students aged 16+. The Level 3 Cambridge Technicals in Business are designed with the workplace in mind and provide a high-quality alternative to A Level. Students will learn how a business might evolve and how business objectives are set as well as the internal workings of businesses. They will also explore ways in which businesses respond to changes in the economic, social and technological environment.

OCR Level 3 Cambridge Technicals Business Specification

CTEC Business Studies Diploma Curriculum Map

CTEC Business Studies Extended Certificate Curriculum Map

Level 3 Certificate in Financial Studies

As an Applied General qualification, the Certificate in Financial Studies (CeFS) is primarily designed for students aged 16–19 and provides a comprehensive introduction to personal finance. Its purpose is to prepare students for further study through the development of the core skills of critical analysis and evaluation, synthesis, verbal communication (through classroom discussion) and written communication. The CeFS develops the knowledge and skills required for young people to make informed financial decisions by introducing them to the risks and challenges involved in personal finance and the tools for effective planning.

CeFS Qualification Specification

Enrichment

Forest Hill School takes full advantage of its proximity to central London and organises trips to the Bank of England and to careers conferences. We encourage students to take part in the Young Investor competition and we also arrange for guest speakers from different areas of industry to discuss career aspirations and progression. We also support students with CV workshops and job/apprenticeship applications.