Business Studies

"Business helps us understand how organisations operate, make decisions and respond to the challenges of an ever-changing world." 

Business education develops the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to succeed in the modern economy. It encourages creativity, problem-solving and entrepreneurial thinking while helping students understand how businesses impact individuals, communities and society. 

At Harris Academy Orpington, we believe that every student should develop an understanding of the business world and its influence on everyday life. Through the study of enterprise, marketing and business operations, students gain valuable knowledge and practical skills that prepare them for further study, employment and future careers.  

We endeavour to develop confident, enterprising young people who can think critically, make informed decisions and understand how successful organisations operate. Through a carefully sequenced curriculum, students build commercial awareness, analytical skills and an understanding of key business concepts that are relevant in today's dynamic economy.  

Business is taught through engaging, real-world contexts that allow students to apply theory to practical situations. Students investigate how businesses respond to customer needs, manage resources, market products and compete successfully within different markets. Through discussion, case studies and project-based learning, students develop resilience, creativity and confidence.  

At our school, we place particular emphasis on entrepreneurship, employability and financial awareness, helping students develop skills that will benefit them throughout their education and future careers. 

Our aim is for every student to leave our school with a strong understanding of business and enterprise, an appreciation of the role businesses play in society and the confidence to pursue their ambitions in an increasingly competitive world. 

The curriculum prepares students for success in examinations while also developing the knowledge, skills and cultural capital required for further education, employment and lifelong learning. 

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Our Business Curriculum 

Our curriculum provides students with a carefully sequenced journey from Key Stage 3 through to Key Stage 5. Throughout their time at our school, students develop their understanding of enterprise, marketing and business practices whilst building the analytical, communication and decision-making skills required for success in education and employment. 

Knowledge is revisited and strengthened throughout the curriculum, enabling students to make meaningful connections between different areas of business and the wider economy. 

Students are encouraged to think like entrepreneurs and business leaders by analysing information, evaluating opportunities, assessing risks and making evidence-based decisions. 

Key Stage 4 

At Key Stage 4, students can study the OCR Cambridge National (CNAT) in Enterprise and Marketing. 

This vocational qualification provides students with practical and relevant knowledge of enterprise and marketing, encouraging them to develop both academic understanding and workplace skills. 

Students explore a range of topics including: 

• Characteristics of successful entrepreneurs 

• Market research and customer profiling 

• Business planning 

• Product development 

• Marketing strategies and promotional campaigns 

• Enterprise concepts and business opportunities 

The qualification combines examined content with coursework-based assessment, allowing students to apply their learning to realistic business scenarios. Students develop valuable skills in planning, research, communication, creativity and evaluation, all of which are highly valued by employers and further education providers. 

Regular assessment and retrieval activities support students in consolidating knowledge and preparing effectively for external examinations and coursework requirements. 

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Key Stage 5 

Students wishing to continue their studies can progress to the OCR Cambridge Technical (C-Tech) Level 3 Extended Certificate in Business. 

This qualification provides a comprehensive understanding of business operations and develops higher-level analytical and professional skills. It is equivalent to one A Level and is highly regarded by universities and employers. 

Students study a range of engaging topics including: 

• The business environment 

• Working in business 

• Marketing and market research 

• Customer and client relations 

• Human resources 

• Business finance 

• Business decision making 

• International business 

The course combines externally assessed units with internally assessed coursework, enabling students to develop independence, organisation and project management skills. 

Students are encouraged to analyse real business issues, evaluate business performance and recommend solutions to contemporary challenges. The qualification provides an excellent foundation for progression to university courses, apprenticeships and careers in business, management, marketing, finance and entrepreneurship. 

"Business challenges me to think strategically and apply my knowledge to real-life situations. It has given me a much better understanding of budgeting, interest rates, and how to manage personal and business finances. I enjoy how we apply theoretical concepts in our lessons, like marketing or finance, to real-world companies and case studies. The course has helped me develop confidence, independence and skills that will support me in university and the workplace." 
- Szymon 

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Why Study Business? 

Business equips students with knowledge and skills that are highly valued by universities, employers and wider society. 

Through studying Business, students learn how to: 

• Think critically 

• Analyse information 

• Solve problems 

• Make informed decisions 

• Communicate effectively 

• Work collaboratively 

• Manage projects 

• Develop entrepreneurial thinking 

• Apply knowledge to real-world situations 

These transferable skills support success across a wide variety of future pathways and prepare students for the demands of higher education and employment. 

Business also helps students develop a greater understanding of the modern economy, entrepreneurship, globalisation, finance and the factors that influence organisational success. 

"Studying Business has increased my confidence and helped me understand the opportunities available to me in the future. The lessons are engaging, relevant and how real businesses operate."