Consent Preferences

School leaver

Start Date: Duration: Level: Study mode: Course Location: Course Type:
September 2 Years Level 3 Full-Time City Campus Full-time Vocational Apply Enquire

What’s it all about?

Do you have a keen interest in finding out about how businesses work and enjoy study that is based on realistic workplace situations? This course will equip you with the practical skills and knowledge of the business environment preparing you for higher education or work.

Core areas of business that will be covered include Marketing, Principles of Management, Event Management, Business Finance, International Business, Exploring business in context.

You will need 4 GCSE's at grade 4-9, ideally including maths and English Language

Study level Cost Additional fees
16-18 Free There are no additional costs required for this course, but you may want to purchase your own stationery and you will be given the opportunity to take part in trips and visits throughout the two-year course. To take part in the trips and visits we require £150.00 which will cover transport and access to the trips and visits which is a key part in understanding the industry and what employers are looking for.

The course is practical, theoretical and what industries require. You’ll be assessed through report writing, presentations, group activities and time constrained tasks. Four core units will be externally assessed, and are exam based.

During sessions you will be required to use your knowledge working in groups or working towards industry briefs, to explore business requirements.

GCSE Maths and English are vital stepping stones for your academic and professional journey. Achieving a good grade in these subjects not only fulfils most college entry requirements but also equips you with essential skills critical in almost every field. Whether you're calculating percentages in business, crafting compelling arguments, or simply managing daily tasks, these core subjects enhance your problem-solving and communication abilities, setting a solid foundation for your future studies and career success. Start your college course with confidence by securing these key qualifications. If you have not achieved one of these subjects you will study it alongside your business programme.

Placement opportunities are an integral part of our curriculum, designed to bridge the gap between academic studies and the professional world. These experiences enable students to apply theoretical knowledge to real workplace challenges, enhancing their academic learning with practical skills. Tailored to complement your studies, placements are offered in a range of industries, from innovative local startups to leading global corporations.
By actively participating in these structured and supportive environments, students not only observe but also contribute meaningfully to the workings of their chosen field. This hands-on approach boosts confidence and provides a competitive advantage in the job market. The insights and experience gained are often transformative, arming students with the necessary tools for a successful and dynamic career. These opportunities are crafted to ensure you emerge as a well-rounded professional, ready to make significant contributions in your future endeavours.A 60 hour industry work placement will be completed by all students on this programme.

At Sunderland College our commitment to your future goes beyond the classroom. We are dedicated to providing you with real-world experiences and industry insights that will prepare you not just to enter, but to excel in your chosen field. Here’s how we connect you with the industry:

• Placement Opportunities: Dive into your future career with our hands-on placement opportunities. These are not just work experiences, but gateways to potential employment and invaluable learning. They’re a core part of our courses, offering you a chance to apply academic theories in real-world scenarios.
• Networking Events: Build your professional network early. Our placement and careers fairs are your chance to meet and impress potential employers. These events are designed to help you forge significant industry connections that can enhance your career prospects. Attend talks, engage in discussions, and explore apprenticeship opportunities with employers who are eager to meet fresh talent.
• Expert Insights: Stay ahead of the curve with talks from specialist speakers. These industry leaders share the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the field, giving you the inside track on what to expect and how to thrive.
• Skills Competitions: Showcase your abilities in our exciting skills competitions. Held throughout the academic year, these competitions are not just about winning – they are about learning, growing, and pushing your limits. They offer a fun, competitive environment to enhance what you learn in class and develop essential industry skills.

This course will give you a comprehensive understanding of all elements of a large organisation and how the internal and external business factors impact on future planning.

Developing a marketing campaign
Principles of Management
Business Decision Making
Personal and Business Finance
Exploring Business
Recruitment and Selection
Customer Service
Training and Development
Managing an Event
Pitching a new business
Team building
Work experience

What’s next?

After successfully completing the course, you could progress onto higher education within the college or study a degree at university in areas such as Human Resources, Marketing or Finance. You could also progress onto a higher apprenticeship or direct into industry.

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93% of our students have progressed to employment, university or further study

(*Destination data, all students, 2023-24)

Why choose Sunderland College?

Rated Outstanding in all areas by Ofsted

Ofsted, 2024

94% Overall pass rate for T Levels

2022-23

Top performing college group in the North East for student achievement

NARTS, 16-18 Students, 2024

We have International award winning Immersive Spaces at both Bede and City Campus