This course provides a deep understanding of business activity and the complex decisions managers face in a dynamic global environment. You will explore the core functions of business including Human Resource Management, Finance, Marketing, and Operations, learning how they are integrated to achieve strategic objectives. The curriculum guides you from the operational management of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to the strategic planning required for large multinational corporations. You will develop the analytical skills to assess business performance using quantitative and qualitative data while examining external factors such as economic, social, and technological changes. By applying these concepts to real-world case studies, you will be equipped to evaluate risks, propose strategic solutions, and make reasoned judgements in complex commercial situations.
AS Level Content: Core Functional Areas (Papers 1 and 2)
The AS Level focuses on foundational business theory, functional areas, and how the external environment affects operations.
1. Business and its Environment
Covers business purpose, **entrepreneurship**, legal ownership, objectives, stakeholders, and the impact of external factors (**PEST** analysis).
2. Human Resource Management (HRM)
Focuses on **motivation theories**, **leadership styles**, recruitment, selection, training, and the importance of employee morale and welfare.
3. Marketing
Emphasizes market dynamics, research, **market segmentation**, applying the **marketing mix (4Ps)**, and the role of **e-commerce**.
4. Operations Management
Deals with **production methods** (job, batch, flow), **inventory management**, flexibility, **innovation**, and factors influencing business location.
5. Finance and Accounting
Introduces sources of finance, **costs**, **break-even analysis**, and interpreting basic **financial statements and accounting ratios**.
A Level Strategic Management
**A Level only** content, focusing on **strategic analysis** (SWOT, Ansoff, Porter’s Five Forces), strategic choice, and strategic implementation for long-term growth.
Skill Development Focus
The course emphasizes analytical, evaluative, and problem-solving skills in a dynamic business context.
Critical Understanding & Analysis
Analyzing how organizations function, how they serve their markets, and how they respond to dynamic environments.
Evaluation & Judgment
Interpreting evidence to make **reasoned judgments**, reach substantiated conclusions, and provide effective recommendations.
Quantitative Skills
Applying **numerical information** and mathematical calculations to aid and justify business decision-making.
Assessment Structure
The full A Level is assessed over four papers (1, 2, 3, 4), while the AS Level requires only Papers 1 and 2.
- **Paper 1: Business Concepts 1** (1 hr 15 mins): Short-answer questions and one essay.
- **Paper 2: Business Concepts 2** (1 hr 30 mins): Two **data-response questions** based on case studies.
- **Paper 3: Business Decision-Making** (1 hr 45 mins): Five compulsory questions on a single case study, testing AS/A Level analysis.
- **Paper 4: Business Strategy** (1 hr 15 mins): Two essay questions based on a case study, focusing on **A Level Strategic content**.