While our GCSE option combines Business and Economics, when you reach Sixth Form, you have the opportunity to study the subject as a stand-alone A Level qualification. Year 12 In the first year of the course, you will build your knowledge of core business concepts and apply them to business contexts to develop a broad understanding of how businesses work. You will focus particularly on the core functional areas of any business such as marketing, people, finance and operations management. Year 13 In the second year of the course, you will take a much more strategic view of business opportunities and issues. You will develop a breadth and depth of knowledge and understanding with applications to a wider range of contexts and more complex business information. The business world is ever-changing and a constant presence in everybody’s lives. This unique characteristic allows us to bring this subject to life in the classroom with real-world examples and case studies to support all areas of the course. We help our A-level business students to find opportunities to enrich their educational experience. These can also be extremely helpful for further education applications, such as personal statements, showing you have a thriving and engaged interest in pursuing this subject, or have a range of widely applicable skills. Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales BASE Competition – Year 12 students take on the role of chartered accountants to solve a business problem with the help of a business expert. National Student Investor Competition – this competition gives a team of four students the task of investing £100,000 (imaginary, unfortunately!) into the London Stock Exchange. The aim is to maximise their portfolio value against other teams around the country. It’s an excellent way to learn more about the stock market in a fun and interesting way. The prize is a trip to New York! Business Prefects – our team of Business prefects is responsible for assisting with Enterprise days, mentoring Business students lower down the school, assisting with open days and helping to run the department's magazine. It’s an excellent opportunity for Business A level students to enrich their time at Sheffield Girls’ as well as improve their CV or personal statement for UCAS applications. Departmental Magazine – students have the opportunity to contribute to the running of the Department's Business and Economics magazine in a variety of roles such as feature writer, editorial team, publishing and more. It’s a fantastic way to combine an interest in Business with other skills.