Year 10
Foundation Knowledge and Business Operations
During Year 10, students explore the fundamental concepts that underpin all business activity. The year begins with Business in the Real World, where students examine the purpose and nature of business, understanding different forms of business ownership from sole traders to limited companies. They develop knowledge of how businesses set aims and objectives, measure success, and recognise the importance of stakeholders in decision-making.
The concept of enterprise and entrepreneurship is thoroughly explored, alongside business location factors and planning strategies. Students learn about both internal and external growth methods, understanding how businesses can expand whilst managing associated risks and challenges.
Business Operations forms another crucial component of Year 10 study. Students explore various production processes, including job production, flow production, and lean production techniques such as just-in-time manufacturing. Quality management becomes a significant focus, with students examining how businesses identify quality issues and implement total quality management systems. Customer service excellence and supply chain management are also thoroughly covered, including procurement and logistics considerations.
Year 11
Advanced Analysis and Strategic Decision-Making
Year 11 builds upon foundational knowledge, delving deeper into business management complexities. Human Resources becomes a central theme, with students examining organisational structures, recruitment and selection processes, and employment contracts. Motivation theory forms a significant part of the curriculum, exploring both financial methods such as commission and profit-sharing, alongside non-financial approaches including job enrichment and team working.
Marketing occupies a substantial portion of Year 11 study, covering customer needs identification, market segmentation, and research methodology. The marketing mix receives detailed examination, with students exploring integrated strategies across product, price, place, and promotion. Product lifecycle theory, pricing strategies, and the growing importance of e-commerce are thoroughly analysed.
Finance forms the final major component, examining sources of finance, cash flow management, and financial performance analysis. Students learn to interpret income statements, calculate key financial ratios, and understand break-even analysis, developing essential analytical skills for business evaluation.
Throughout both years, Influences on Business are integrated into all topics, helping students understand how economic factors, technology, environmental considerations, and legislation shape business decisions. The impact of globalisation and competitive markets is consistently emphasised.
Our programme concludes with comprehensive revision and formal examinations, ensuring students are fully prepared for their AQA assessments. This combination of theoretical understanding and practical application prepares students exceptionally well for progression to A-Level Business Studies, apprenticeships, or direct entry into the business world.
Contact
The Thomas Adams School
Lowe Hill
Wem
Shropshire
SY4 5UB
Tel: +44 1939 237000