The CCEA GCSE Business Studies specification encourages students to investigate how businesses start up. They explore the resources, marketing and finance that businesses need and the challenges they face. They also examine how businesses grow and the role of stakeholders: groups that have an interest in a business. They understand the role of human resources, the recruitment and selection process, and the value of employee training and motivation.
Important new topics include the role of social enterprise, e-business and m-business. Students discover how businesses can use electronic and mobile technology in different ways. They also learn to apply skills such as decision making, proposing business strategies or solutions, understanding other viewpoints and justifying decisions.
Why study Business Studies?
Studying Business Studies will help students gain knowledge and understanding of businesses, how they operate and the roles of various stakeholders. Students will learn how businesses start up, what is required to keep them going and the challenges they face.
By taking this subject, students will be well prepared to study at A Level. The huge advantage of studying Business Studies is that it can lead to a wide range of degree and career opportunities.
A qualification in Business Studies can lead to a career in accounting, advertising, banking, retail, management consulting, marketing, research, human resources, a small business, or self-employment as an entrepreneur.
CCEA GCSE Business Studies Specification : QR Code
Year 11 Business Studies - The Dragon's Den Challenge
The Year 11s were inventive in designing a new flavour of soft drink.
Business Studies Residential to Disneyland Paris
A group of 30 students from years 12, 13, and 14 had an incredible experience during their Business Studies residential trip to Disneyland Paris. The journey was both educational and fun, offering a unique blend of learning and leisure.
Day 1: Travel and Arrival The group travelled from Belfast International Airport to Charles de Gaulle Airport. Upon arrival, they checked into their hotel and took some time to familiarise themselves with the resort and Disney Village, setting the stage for the exciting days ahead.
Day 2: Paris City Exploration The day was packed with sightseeing and exploration of Paris. The group visited the 2nd floor of the Eiffel Tower, where they climbed 674 steps up and down for an unforgettable experience. Following this, they enjoyed a scenic river cruise along the Seine on a Bateaux Mouches boat. The group then had some time for retail therapy along the famous Champs-Élysées before visiting the Arc de Triomphe, rounding off a day full of iconic landmarks.
Day 3: Business Seminar and Walt Disney Theme Park The third day was a perfect balance of business learning and theme park fun. Students attended a Business Studies seminar on “Selling the Dream,” focusing on marketing strategies used by Disney to create magical experiences. They then participated in a hands-on workshop, where they had to create a pitch and apply the 4Ps (Product, Price, Place, Promotion) to sell a product to their audience. In the afternoon, the group visited both Walt Disney Park and Disney Studios for more thrills and entertainment. To end the day, students went shopping at the Val d’Europe shopping centre before packing for their departure the following day.
Day 4: Final Day at Disney The final day was spent enjoying the rides and attractions at both Disney Park and Studios. It was a perfect way to wrap up the trip before heading back to the airport for the return flight home.
The residential was an amazing experience, blending educational activities with the magic of Disney. The students created lifelong memories and gained valuable insights into business practices from one of the world's most iconic entertainment companies.
Year 11 Industrial Visit to Tayto
upcoming trip 5 June 2025