Free Level 2 Business Course in Harlow. Classes run at Harlow College, full-time during the day. The course is free if you're 16 to 18 years old. You'll need four GCSEs at grades 2 to 3 (or equivalent) and a minimum Level 1 in Maths and English to join. Over one year, you'll cover core topics including communication skills for work and understanding business organisations, alongside optional modules such as working with customers, digital skills, and exploring entrepreneurship. Assessment is entirely through coursework, built around business and employability projects.
Who this course is for
This course will give students the potential opportunity to progress to the level 3 qualification in business, or to develop skills that will be valuable in a variety of full-time employment opportunities. It is a one-year programme that can help build up some essential skills and knowledge of the subject of business before stepping up to the next level.
Entry requirements
4 GCSEs grades 2 - 3 or equivalent and minimum Level 1 in Maths and English.
What you will learn
You'll develop communication skills for a workplace setting.
You'll explore how business organisations are structured and how they operate.
You'll build digital skills relevant to business environments.
You'll learn how to work effectively with customers.
You'll study the basics of entrepreneurship and what it takes to start a business.
You'll discover how products and services are promoted.
You'll understand the role of an administrator within a business.
You'll practise interview skills to prepare for employment.
How you will learn
All units are assessed by coursework. Work is split into projects of various sizes, completed throughout the year. Each project contains a number of modules, all of which must be passed to complete the project. You'll build a portfolio as you go, working through business and employability projects in the classroom. There are no exams.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Harlow College will confirm anything else you need before you start. Note that a £75 deposit is required toward a college iPad, though bursary options are available. Costs for any educational trips or workshops will be communicated during the year.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Business administrator: supporting day-to-day operations in an office
Finance assistant: handling invoices, payments, and basic accounts
HR assistant: helping with recruitment and employee records
Marketing assistant: supporting campaigns and promotional activity
Retail assistant: customer-facing sales and stock management
Self-employed or freelance: running your own small business
What you could study next
Level 3 Diploma in Business: the natural next step, deepening your knowledge and opening doors to higher-level roles or university.
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Business (BTEC): a broader qualification recognised for entry to business-related degree courses.
Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Business: a Level 4 qualification for those aiming toward management or specialist business roles.
