Business Studies

Intent

Our BTEC Enterprise course aims to equip students with a strong understanding of the world of business and enterprise. We intend to develop students’ entrepreneurial knowledge, skills, and behaviours through a curriculum that is relevant, engaging, and accessible to all learners. The course fosters creativity, financial literacy, and employability skills, preparing students for further education, apprenticeships, or careers in business and related fields. We are committed to ensuring that students build confidence, resilience, and a growth mindset, enabling them to become proactive and adaptable individuals in the modern economy.

Implementation

The course is delivered through a structured two-year scheme of work, following the Pearson framework for the 2022 specification. Teaching blends theoretical understanding with practical application, ensuring students can explore real business contexts and develop enterprise skills progressively.

• Component 1 introduces the fundamentals of enterprise and the characteristics of successful entrepreneurs.
• Component 2 develops students’ ability to plan and pitch a realistic micro-enterprise, applying knowledge and building communication and presentation skills.
• Component 3 deepens understanding of promotion and finance through external assessment, consolidating learning with real-world financial literacy and marketing concepts.

Lessons incorporate a variety of teaching strategies, including project-based learning, group work, and use of technology, with differentiation and additional support tailored to meet the needs of all learners, including those with SEN. Cross-curricular links with maths, English, and PSHE ensure wider skills development. Opportunities for cultural capital are embedded through case studies of diverse businesses and ethical enterprise issues.

Impact

Students completing the BTEC Tech Award in Enterprise demonstrate increased knowledge of business concepts and improved practical skills, such as planning, communication, and financial literacy. They show greater confidence and independence when applying enterprise skills to real-life scenarios. Progress is measured through a combination of internal assessments and the external exam, with outcomes aligned to course objectives and national standards.

Feedback from students and employers confirms that learners leave the course better prepared for the workplace, further education, or entrepreneurship. Our commitment to inclusivity ensures all students, regardless of background or ability, achieve meaningful progress and develop skills essential for their future economic wellbeing.

Extra Curricular and Enrichment

To Read

• BTEC Tech Award Enterprise Student Book – Pearson
• The Startup Playbook – David Kidder
• Business Basics – Peter Stimpson and Alex Smith
• How to be an Entrepreneur – Martin Bisset
• The Financial Times Guide to Business Start Up 2023/24 – Sara Williams
• Rich Dad Poor Dad for Teens – Robert T. Kiyosaki
• Young Enterprise website articles
• BBC Bitesize Business Studies
• The Guardian Small Business Section

To Watch

• “Shark Tank” (or UK’s “Dragon’s Den”) — Real entrepreneurs pitch their business ideas to investors, helping students understand pitching, negotiation, and business evaluation.
• “The Apprentice” (UK or US versions) — Offers insight into business challenges, teamwork, leadership, and enterprise skills.
• TED Talks on Entrepreneurship — Short, inspiring talks about starting businesses, innovation, and leadership.
• “Inside the Mind of a CEO” (YouTube series) — Interviews with successful entrepreneurs sharing their journey and tips.
• BBC Bitesize Business Studies videos — Clear, curriculum-linked explanations of key business concepts.
• “How I Built This” (podcast or video versions) — Stories from founders of famous companies about how they started and grew their businesses.
• Documentaries on small businesses or startups — To see how enterprises operate day-to-day and overcome challenges.

Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Awareness and Learning

The BTEC Tech Award in Enterprise (2022) supports spiritual, moral, social, and cultural awareness by encouraging students to reflect on their values and ambitions, make ethical business decisions, and work effectively with others. It helps them develop integrity and social responsibility through exploring business ethics and teamwork. The course also broadens cultural understanding by studying diverse businesses and global markets, preparing students to respect different cultures and operate confidently in a connected world.

Careers Related Learning

The BTEC Tech Award in Enterprise (2022) provides valuable careers-related learning by helping students develop practical skills like planning, communication, problem-solving, and financial literacy that are essential in many workplaces. Through activities like researching business ideas, creating plans, and pitching proposals, students gain insight into entrepreneurship and business roles.

The course builds confidence, teamwork, and independence, preparing learners for a range of career paths, including self-employment, apprenticeships, and further education in business and related fields.