STUDYING BUSINESS AT REDBORNE

Studying business helps students to gain a deep understanding of how to create, manage and grow business organisations of all types. Students cover a range of theory-based content such as examining production techniques, types of ownership, motivational theories, external influences on firms and pricing strategies. They also have the opportunity to develop practical business skills and knowledge in areas such as recruitment, financial accounting, business planning and communication. 

COURSES OFFERED

Students at Redborne have a variety of business-related courses which they can opt to study.

Key Stage 4 

GCSE Business is a very popular option and students choosing the course are introduced to a wide range of topics relating to the main functional areas of business organisations (marketing, finance, human resources and operations) as well as to study of types of business organisation (from small sole traders to large multinational corporations) and external influences on business activity such as ethical, environmental, economic and legal factors.  Students opting to follow the GCSE Business course will study the Eduqas specification. The course is assessed by two examinations which are sat at the end of Year 11. 

Sixth Form 

Students wishing to study business in the sixth form can follow the OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Extended Certificate in Business, which is equivalent to one A level. The course is a mixture of external exams and internally assessed coursework units which enable students to enhance their knowledge and understanding of business concepts alongside developing their business skills and leadership qualities. Units studied include 'the business environment', 'working in business', 'customers and communication' and 'introduction to human resources'.

Students wishing to study Finance in the sixth form can follow the London Institute of Banking and Finance Diploma in Financial Studies, which is equivalent to one A level. This is a web-based course where all materials and supporting interactive resources can be accessed electronically. In Year 12 the course focuses on encouraging students to become responsible borrowers, sensible savers and to appreciate the need for financial planning throughout their life. In Year 13 the focus is on students making informed and confident decisions relating to sustainability for their own individual finances and also in relation to the financial services system.

LESSONS

Lessons involve a wide range of learning activities including presentations, group work, discussions, practical demonstrations and written tasks. Students have the opportunity to develop their ICT skills in activities where they produce business documentation (such as business plans, training materials or recruitment communications), research real businesses and construct and use financial data. The department is well-resourced and equipped with a wide variety of texts, electronic materials and other resources to support learning.

EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Students have the opportunity to participate in business challenges and other business enterprise projects (for example Young Enterprise, which is coordinated by Redborne's Careers Leader). The department has strong links with alumni and is currently expanding the range of outside speakers hosted and educational visits offered.