Intent

Our intent is to ensure that students following Business courses at Newton Abbot College develop an understanding and appreciation of the dynamic, global business environment in which we live. For many students, Business inspires an entrepreneurial spirit which ultimately leads to the setting up of successful business enterprises. For most students, Business engenders an important understanding of the economic environment in which we live, work and study which impacts so strongly on our lives. For all students, Business provides a valuable insight into the world of work to which we all ultimately progress as employees or employers.

Business Learning Journey

Implementation

Studying Business helps to prepare our students for an enterprising future. Our courses offer an insight into the world of work, and provide opportunities to study local, national, and international organisations. Personal character and interpersonal skills are developed through problem solving, planning, presenting and collaboration. Subject specific skills such as accounting techniques and market research are developed through a learning by doing approach. Business students at Newton Abbot College are always encouraged to develop an awareness of business and the economy in the real-world. We meet the needs of our students, including those with SEND and those who may be disadvantaged by using pre-prepared “workbooks” which incorporate writing frames, templates, diagram structures and calculation support materials. Business is available as a preference subject at GCSE and Advanced level.

Impact

Business at Newton Abbot College is a well-constructed, thoughtfully taught subject which has historically led to good results at KS4 & KS5. The recent change to a newly introduced GCSE course is intended to allow learners to continue to be successful.  Quality Assurance is aided by a team-teaching model for each group within the department ensures that the curriculum plans are delivered appropriately.  There is a planned programme for monitoring and reflecting on provision, including:

• Cooperative planning meetings
• Fortnightly meeting with SLT line manager
• Ongoing CPD to support less experienced members of the Business team

An element of curiosity and enjoyment is introduced from the very first Business lesson and continues throughout Key Stage 4, not only coming from the teaching staff but also from members of the local business community that are invited into school to talk to Business students. Business Studies is a popular and successful KS4 option at Newton Abbot College.  The majority of GCSE Business pupils go on to study Business related courses in our Sixth Form or at other local HE colleges.  A number have applied for Business related Apprenticeships. After pupils have completed their Business Education, they leave Newton Abbot College much more informed about the world in which they live.  They are able to offer better, informed opinions on their futures based on the development of their economic understanding and the enterprise capabilities they have developed.