Course overview

Are you fascinated by the 'dot-com' world of business? Do you think logically and enjoy solving problems? Do you dream or running or owning your own business? Then this is the course for you! Our National Extended Diploma in Business and Enterprise, Level 3, (which equates to 3 A-levels and provides a route to university) explores how businesses are run, finances, the importance of marketing, human resources and communications. You will develop skills required to be effective in business, exploring enterprise and small business operations; whilst also considering how the effects of events such as Brexit and Covid-19 will have had on these businesses.

This course will equip you with the analytical skills and business knowledge you need to progress to higher education, and is an ideal route if you are thinking about studying business, finance, law or marketing at university!

You will develop a sound knowledge and understanding of business and finance through a combination of lectures, tutorials and independent study. You learn about how different types of businesses recruit, communicate, manage their finances and use their resources.

You will be encouraged to think about a range of new and exciting topics, using real-life case studies and class trips to widen your practical knowledge of the sector. You will also learn about aspects of employment law, product promotion, internet marketing, market research and web design.

You will have the opportunity to take part in course related trips to national and local businesses such as Cadbury and Alton Towers. During the course you will undertake a minimum 100 hours work placement and evidence for assessment is collected from real working environments. Students will also receive talks from industry experts.

You will be required to wear industry standard business attire throughout your course.

Please note that this course is predominantly aimed at 16 to 19 year olds.

Entry requirements

5 GCSEs (A*-C) or (Grade 4 and above) including English and maths. Alternatively, you will have achieved a Diploma in Business Level 2 or an equivalent qualification. Entry is subject to a satisfactory reference and interview.

Entry decisions will be discretionary at interview. Students will continually be assessed through probation period to ensure they are on the correct level.

Course Modules

- Exploring Business
- Developing a Marketing Campaign
- Personal and Business Finance
- Recruitment and Selection
- Investigating Retail Business
- Managing an Event
- International Business
- Team Building in Business
- Business Decision Making

How will I be assessed?

You will be assessed through projects and coursework. Your assessments will be based on real-life situations and you will be expected to show your knowledge of business concepts in your work.

What can I do next

Upon successful completion of this course you may want to continue on to our Higher National Diploma in Business Management. You may also consider other higher education routes including a degree in Business Management, Marketing, or Law.

Alternatively you could start and apprenticeship or seek employment in this busy and exciting industry.

You will also be open to a range of careers including (but not limited to):
- Business Advisor
- Marketing and Sales Manager
- Human Resource Manager
- Accountant
- Financial Advisor
- BookKeeper
- Event Organiser
- Public Relations Officer
- Advertising Account Executive
- Lawyer
- Solicitor