Business and Communication Systems -
GCSE (Optional)*

*This can only be taken with Business Studies GCSE

Course description:

There is also the opportunity for students studying GCSE Business Studies to be entered for the Business and Communications Systems GCSE as well if they wish. It will require approximately 20 one hour extra lessons after school with additional homework in Year 11. This course aims to enable students to have a sound knowledge and understanding of how ICT is used in business and the implications of this for companies e.g. security of data and equipment, legislation, health and safety.

See: Business Studies GCSE | Applied Business

Course structure and assessment:

25% coursework

Students complete a 1,500 word assignment on the security of data and equipment at an organisation of the student’s choice.

35% practical examination

Students sit a 1 ½ hour practical exam where they have to, for example, set up a spreadsheet and use formulas, set up a database and search and sort it, prepare word processing documents or prepare desktop publishing tasks.

40% theory examination

This consists of a one hour written paper.

There are two tiers of entry A* - D or C – G.

Books, equipment, materials and resources recommended / needed:

All resources are provided although students are given the opportunity to purchase a revision guide in Year 11.

Opportunities for study beyond Key Stage 4:

The GCSE Business Studies course provides a progression route to AS and A2 Business Studies, both taught at Blatch 6.

Career opportunities supported by this subject:

There are many career opportunities for students who study GCSE Business Studies. Students would be able to enter many types of employment with the broad background knowledge provided by the five sections of the GCSE Business Studies specification. For more information about the course see the EDEXCEL website.