Business Studies
The Business Studies Department provides an exciting and practical learning experience for students at Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5. We offer OCN NI Level 2 Skills in Business and the OCR Level 3 Introductory Diploma in Business, equipping learners with essential knowledge and employability skills for the modern workplace.
Our vision is to develop entrepreneurial and enterprising individuals who are prepared for the changing world of work. Students benefit from unique opportunities such as the Young Enterprise Company Programme in Year 13 and real-world experiences through visits to leading businesses like Coca-Cola and the SSE Arena.
With vibrant classroom displays and interactive lessons, we bring business learning to life and inspire future success.
GCSE
At Key Stage 4, students study the OCN NI Level 2 Skills for Business qualification, a practical course designed to develop essential business knowledge and employability skills.
Learners explore topics such as business aims and objectives, structures, enterprise and entrepreneurship, financial statements, and workplace motivation.
Assessment is 100% coursework, completed through five Learner Assessment Booklets that include creative tasks like presentations and posters.
This qualification helps students build key skills such as meeting deadlines, working collaboratively, and staying organised, while providing a strong foundation for progression to A Level Business Studies or future careers in the business sector.
Post 16
At Key Stage 5, students complete the OCR Level 3 Introductory Diploma in Business, a practical and engaging course that develops essential business knowledge and employability skills.
Learners study key areas including the business environment, resources, accounting, marketing, communication, and health and safety.
Assessment is 100% coursework, completed through six portfolios featuring creative tasks such as presentations, posters, and surveys.
This qualification provides an excellent foundation for further study in Business, Marketing, Finance, or Human Resources, as well as progression to apprenticeships or employment. Students also gain insight into management and leadership while developing teamwork, communication, and time management skills.
To bring learning to life, learners apply their knowledge to real businesses through visits to Coca-Cola and the SSE Arena, enriching their understanding of how theory works in practice.
Extra-curricular
Our Business Studies department offers exciting opportunities to develop real-world skills through the Young Enterprise programmes.
In Year 10, students take part in the Project Business Programme, where they create their own jewellery company, exploring roles, branding, customer experience, and problem-solving.
At Key Stage 5, Year 13 students participate in the Young Enterprise Company Programme, forming teams to design, launch, and manage a real business—from product development and raising capital to marketing and sales—supported by teachers and business mentors. These experiences build confidence, teamwork, leadership, and communication skills, while fostering creativity and resilience.
By engaging in authentic business challenges, students develop employability skills, enhance wellbeing through collaborative learning, and gain inspiration for future careers and aspirations.