BTEC Business or Finance Course Structure and Teaching Approach

Exam Board: Pearson

Course Structure

The BTEC Business or Finance course offers a vocational qualification aimed at providing students with a practical understanding of business operations and finance-related concepts. It is tailored to those who want to pursue careers in business, finance, or related fields and develop industry-relevant skills. The course is designed to build competence in areas such as business management, accounting, and finance practices through a mix of theoretical knowledge and practical applications.

Units Covered (Core Topics)

1. Unit 1: Exploring Business (30 hours)
   • Understanding Business Aims and Objectives.
   • Types of Business Ownership: Sole Traders, Partnerships, and Corporations.
   • The Role of Entrepreneurs in Business Development.
   • External Influences on Business: Economic, Political, and Technological.
2. Unit 2: Developing a Marketing Campaign (30 hours)
   • The Marketing Mix: Product, Price, Place, Promotion.
   • Conducting Market Research and Segmentation.
   • Crafting a Marketing Campaign: Planning, Strategy, and Implementation.
   • Evaluating the Success of Marketing Campaigns.
3. Unit 3: Personal and Business Finance (30 hours)
   • Personal Finance Management: Income, Budgeting, Savings, and Investments.
   • Business Finance: Sources of Finance, Financial Statements, and Cash Flow.
   • Financial Planning and Budgeting in Business.
   • Financial Analysis: Profit and Loss Statements, Balance Sheets, and Ratios.
4. Unit 4: Managing an Event (30 hours)
   • Planning and Organizing Business Events.
   • Budgeting for an Event and Managing Costs.
   • Marketing and Promotion of Events.
   • Evaluating the Effectiveness of an Event.
5. Unit 5: International Business (30 hours)
   • The Global Business Environment: Trade, Globalization, and Exchange Rates.
   • Understanding the Impact of International Markets on Business.
   • Exploring Multinational Corporations and Global Strategy.
6. Unit 6: Principles of Finance (30 hours)
   • Understanding the Role of Finance in Business.
   • Financial Statements and Cash Flow Management.
   • Introduction to Financial Risk Management.
   • Capital Investment and Decision-Making.
7. Unit 7: Recruitment and Selection in Business (20 hours)
   • Understanding Recruitment and Selection Processes.
   • Job Descriptions, Person Specifications, and Interview Techniques.
   • Employee Induction and Training Processes.
8. Unit 8: Introducing Digital Marketing (20 hours)
   • Digital Marketing Tools and Strategies.
   • Social Media and Online Advertising.
   • SEO, Content Marketing, and Website Analytics.

Assessment Overview

BTEC Business and Finance qualifications are largely assessed through coursework-based projects, assignments, and presentations. This allows students to apply knowledge practically, demonstrating their understanding through real-world applications. Some units may also have externally assessed exams.

• Unit Assessment: Each unit is assessed by coursework, which includes assignments, case studies, and practical tasks.
• Final Qualification Assessment: Some units may have external exams that are necessary to complete the full qualification.

Teaching Approach

Practical Learning and Real-World Application:

• Case studies and simulations are used to help students understand real business and finance situations.
• Group projects where students can apply marketing, finance, and business strategies to real-life scenarios.
• Role-playing and presentations on business concepts such as market research, financial planning, and event management.

Case studies and simulations, group projects, role-playing, and presentations are used to help students understand and apply concepts.

Interactive and Collaborative Learning: Class discussions, debates, and group work focus on real-world topics.

Industry-Relevant Skills Development: Emphasis on financial literacy, business planning, and software usage.

Independent Learning and Research: Encouragement of independent exploration and exposure to real-life business practices.

Completion Time

The course duration is typically 2 years (full-time), with weekly schedules of 6-8 hours (full-time) or 3-4 hours (part-time).

Additional Support

• Trial Classes: Free or discounted sessions.
• Flexible Payment Options: Weekly or monthly payments, with discounts for upfront payments.
• Additional Workshops: Specialized sessions on topics like event management or digital marketing.
• Career Guidance and Progression Support: Help with UCAS applications and mentorship.