• Slideshow - The core values of Downend School are simple; they are focused on a sense of belonging, a belief that all students have it within themselves to be effective learners and that we can extend this learning beyond the reach of school and into the future
  • Slideshow - The core values of Downend School are simple; they are focused on a sense of belonging, a belief that all students have it within themselves to be effective learners and that we can extend this learning beyond the reach of school and into the future
  • Slideshow - The core values of Downend School are simple; they are focused on a sense of belonging, a belief that all students have it within themselves to be effective learners and that we can extend this learning beyond the reach of school and into the future
  • Slideshow - The core values of Downend School are simple; they are focused on a sense of belonging, a belief that all students have it within themselves to be effective learners and that we can extend this learning beyond the reach of school and into the future
  • Slideshow - The core values of Downend School are simple; they are focused on a sense of belonging, a belief that all students have it within themselves to be effective learners and that we can extend this learning beyond the reach of school and into the future
  • Slideshow - The core values of Downend School are simple; they are focused on a sense of belonging, a belief that all students have it within themselves to be effective learners and that we can extend this learning beyond the reach of school and into the future
  • Slideshow - The core values of Downend School are simple; they are focused on a sense of belonging, a belief that all students have it within themselves to be effective learners and that we can extend this learning beyond the reach of school and into the future
  • Slideshow - The core values of Downend School are simple; they are focused on a sense of belonging, a belief that all students have it within themselves to be effective learners and that we can extend this learning beyond the reach of school and into the future
  • Slideshow - The core values of Downend School are simple; they are focused on a sense of belonging, a belief that all students have it within themselves to be effective learners and that we can extend this learning beyond the reach of school and into the future
  • Slideshow - The core values of Downend School are simple; they are focused on a sense of belonging, a belief that all students have it within themselves to be effective learners and that we can extend this learning beyond the reach of school and into the future
  • Slideshow - The core values of Downend School are simple; they are focused on a sense of belonging, a belief that all students have it within themselves to be effective learners and that we can extend this learning beyond the reach of school and into the future

Business Studies

Key Stage 4

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Business Studies

This is a two year course with one final examination (75% of final grade) and coursework (25% of final grade).

Introduction

GCSE Business Studies looks at the world of business and industry and gives students an understanding of the dynamics of business activity. The course is divided into five units and will integrate theory, activity and practical research based assignments.

Business Studies

Unit 1: Business Activity and Environment

This area of the syllabus covers business aims and objectives, location, business organisation and different types of economy. There are two assessed pieces of work to monitor progress. One is focussed on the local economy of South Gloucestershire and the other on ‘Let us make a million’ in which students ‘notionally’ purchase shares and then track their progress.

Unit 2: Human Resources

Essential area for any student as it prepares them for life in the real world. They study people in organisations with a focus on roles, relationships and management in business. The importance of motivation in the workplace and how this can apply to their own lives is also covered. Students are encouraged to think and learn beyond the classroom.

Unit 3: Marketing

All aspects of the marketing process are covered in this area of the syllabus—product, price, promotion and place.  The students have to work on a marketing strategy for a new product—from identifying customer needs to launching the new product.  This is a small group activity and helps the development of team work and sharing responsibility—building on learning from the Human Resources part of the syllabus.

Unit 4: Production

Students research and learn about a range of different production methods. This is reinforced by a practical element in which they carry out all the different production techniques — making puppets, flowers and ‘paper vehicles’. This enables the acquisition of a number of skills.

Unit 5: Finance and Accounting

Business success depends on the most effective use of finance. Students learn about the use of cash flow, budgeting, break-even analysis, profit and loss and balance sheets. They are taught how to set these up and make the calculations.

Coursework

This forms 25% of the final examination grade. The students are set a problem by the Examination Board. This takes the form of producing a marketing strategy for a fast food outlet in the Downend/Staple Hill/Fishponds area. Coursework support sessions are run after school to provide individual help.

Extra-Curricular Activities

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  • GCSE Business Studies
    GCSE Business Studies
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