The BTEC Business course offers a practical, real-world approach to learning about the business environment. It is designed for students who enjoy coursework-based learning and want to develop skills in research, communication, and problem-solving. The course focuses on how businesses operate, make decisions, and respond to challenges, using real companies and case studies to bring learning to life.

What will you study?

Students follow the Edexcel/Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate specification, which includes:

• Unit 1: Exploring Business – coursework based on real-life organisations
• Unit 2: Developing a Marketing Campaign – externally assessed assignment
• Unit 3: Personal and Business Finance – externally assessed exam
• Unit 8: Recruitment and Selection – coursework

Assessment

Assessment is a combination of coursework and external assessment:

• 50% coursework (internally assessed)
• 50% external assessment (exam and externally set assignment)

Students must complete all units to achieve the qualification. The course is equivalent to one A Level.

Entry requirements

To study BTEC Business, students should have:

• A minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade 9–4 (or equivalent)
• A Grade 4 in GCSE English is recommended

Enrichment opportunities

Students benefit from a range of enrichment activities, including:

• Trips to local and national businesses
• Visits to places such as Thorpe Park, Hogs Back Brewery, and Go Ape
• Opportunities to apply learning through real-world scenarios and group projects

These experiences help students apply their learning in practical contexts and develop broader skills in teamwork, communication, and enterprise.

Progression and careers

Studying BTEC Business opens doors to a wide range of university courses and career pathways, including:

• Business Management, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, and Finance
• Transferable skills in organisation, research, and communication

This course also prepares students for higher-level apprenticeships or direct entry into the workplace.

“I chose BTEC Business because I felt like it would open a lot of doors for future careers. Business teaches you a lot about the world and how it works. I enjoy the more independent way of learning that BTEC offers and the valuable content that I can take into my future.”
— Charlie Harris