Post A Job
Advertise Courses
Search Jobs
Search Courses

Free BTEC Level 3 Business Course in Shefford

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start4 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 3 BTEC National Extended Certificate in Business Course in Shefford. Classes run at Samuel Whitbread Academy, full-time over two years.

This BTEC business qualification sits alongside A levels and other Level 3 subjects. It combines coursework and exams, so you're not relying on a single final exam. You'll study how businesses operate, how they market products, and how they manage people and finance. The course is equivalent to one A level.

You'll need a Grade 4 in GCSE English and a Grade 4 in GCSE Maths to join. You'll finish with a Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Extended Certificate in Business.

Who this course is for

If you're interested in business but not ready to commit to a totally work related route to further study or employment, this course will give you the chance to get a taste of business, alongside other subjects such as A levels or other work related qualifications. Equivalent to 1 A level, the course combines well with most other Level 3 subjects and would suit you if you prefer a combination of coursework and exams to a linear course with a final exam. You don't need any previous qualifications or experience in business and the course will give you useful transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, research and analysis that are useful in a wide range of careers.

Entry requirements

APS 4.2. Grade 4 in GCSE English Language or Literature. Grade 4 in GCSE Maths.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore how businesses are structured and how they make decisions.
  • You'll study marketing principles and how businesses reach their customers.
  • You'll learn how organisations manage people and human resources.
  • You'll examine business finance, including budgets and financial performance.
  • You'll develop skills in research, analysis, and presenting business ideas.
  • You'll complete coursework assignments alongside exam-based units.

How you will learn

The course uses a mix of coursework assignments and written exams. Some units are assessed through internally marked assignments; others are assessed by external Pearson Edexcel exams. Classes are delivered in person at Samuel Whitbread Academy during the day. You'll build your knowledge unit by unit across the two years, with coursework deadlines and exam sessions spread throughout.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Samuel Whitbread Academy will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Business administrator, supports day-to-day operations in an office or organisation.
  • Office assistant, handles admin, correspondence, and scheduling for a team.
  • Marketing assistant, helps plan and deliver campaigns for a brand or business.
  • Customer service advisor, manages queries and builds relationships with clients.
  • Sales support coordinator, assists a sales team with orders and client accounts.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 BTEC National Diploma in Business, a larger qualification for learners who want to go deeper into business study.
  • A Level 4 or Level 5 Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in Business, a step toward degree-level study.
  • A Business or Management degree at university, where this BTEC certificate counts toward entry requirements.
  • A Level 3 apprenticeship in Business Administration, combining work and study.
Apply on samuelwhitbread.org.uk →
Apply now →

Related courses at Samuel Whitbread Academy

More courses near you