Free Level 3 Applied Business Course in Sandwich

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start5 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyAQA awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Applied Business Course in Sandwich. Classes run at Sandwich Technology School, full-time over two years.

The course gives you a grounding in how businesses work. You'll explore topics such as business finance, marketing, human resources, and how organisations are managed. It carries the same weight as one A Level, making it a strong option alongside other post-16 study. You'll need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths, to join.

You'll finish with an AQA Extended Certificate in Applied Business at Level 3.

Who this course is for

The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Business is an Applied General qualification. It is for learners who want to continue their education through applied learning and who aim to progress to higher education and ultimately to employment in the business sector. The qualification is equivalent in size to one A Level and aims to provide a coherent introduction to study of the business sector.

Entry requirements

At least 5 GCSE grade 4 or above including English and Mathematics

What you will learn

  • You'll explore how businesses are structured and how they operate day to day.
  • You'll study the principles of marketing and how businesses reach their customers.
  • You'll learn how organisations manage their finances and control costs.
  • You'll examine human resources and how businesses recruit, develop, and retain staff.
  • You'll analyse how businesses respond to change and make strategic decisions.
  • You'll develop skills in interpreting business data and presenting findings clearly.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based lessons at Sandwich Technology School. The AQA Extended Certificate in Applied Business is assessed through a mix of externally set exams and internally assessed coursework units. Coursework tasks are based on real business scenarios, and exams test your understanding of core business concepts.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Sandwich Technology School will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Business administrator, supports the day-to-day running of an organisation.
  • Office manager, oversees admin functions and coordinates teams.
  • Marketing assistant, helps plan and deliver marketing campaigns.
  • HR administrator, supports recruitment and staff records.
  • Customer service team leader, manages a front-line service team.
  • Accounts assistant, handles invoicing and basic financial records.

What you could study next

  • A Level Business Studies, a traditional academic route if you want to broaden your study before university.
  • BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Business, a larger applied qualification covering more specialist units.
  • Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Business, a Level 4 qualification and a step toward a full degree.
  • Degree in Business Management or a related field, for those aiming at graduate-level roles.