At KS4 the department offers GCSE Business and Communication Systems

This is a two year course appealing to students who enjoy combining theoretical understanding and practical application of business and the use of ICT.

Unit 8 – ICT Systems in Business

This unit introduces candidates to the importance of business and communication systems which contribute to the success of a business, in achieving its objectives. In particular, candidates will consider how ICT systems affect the way people work and how they can potentially improve communication both internally and externally. Candidates will be encouraged to consider not only the benefits of ICT in the workplace, but also the potential risks relating to the health and safety of staff and the security of data. The unit is assessed by a one hour written examination providing 40% of the final marks.

1. Administration

This section introduces candidates to the importance of administration and how it supports the main functions of a business from its initial setting up to ensuring its continued survival and growth when faced with increasing competition. Study includes:

1.1 The Business Environment

1.2 Business Administration

1.3 Workplace Organisation

1.4 Health and Safety at Work

1.5 ICT Data Systems in Business

1.6 Security of Data

2. Human Resources

This section introduces candidates to the importance of people in helping businesses achieve their objectives. In particular the importance of recruiting, retaining and rewarding staff, and providing a safe working environment. Topics include:

2.1 Recruitment and Selection of Staff

2.2 Training

2.3 Rewarding Staff

2.4 Employment Rights and Responsibilities

3. Communication

This section provides candidates with an understanding of the structure and importance of communication systems in meeting the aims and objectives of business. Topics include:

3.1 The Purpose of Communication

3.2 Communication Systems

3.3 The Importance of ICT in Business Communications

3.4 The Internet and E-Commerce

Unit 9 – Using ICT in Business

This unit introduces candidates to a range of software applications used to support each function of a business. It helps candidates to understand how a business can use software to capture, store, retrieve and analyse data so as to meet its requirements. The unit is assessed as a one and a half hour practical examination paper providing 35 % of the final marks. Study will include the following topics:

9.1 Selection and Use of Appropriate Software for business purposes

9.2 Word Processing

9.3 Spreadsheets

9.4 Databases

9.5 Graphics

9.6 Presentation

9.7 Web Authoring

Unit 10 – Investigating ICT in Business

This unit is a controlled assessment and assesses the subject content in Unit 9 Using ICT in Business. The work must be each candidate’s own individual response, produced under controlled conditions. This will require candidates to undertake an investigation into the use of ICT in business and a practical exercise. This unit constitutes 25% of the final mark.