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Free Level 3 Business Course in Bristol – St Brendan’s Sixth Form College

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start2 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 3 Business Course in Bristol. Classes run at St Brendan's Sixth Form College, full-time during the day.

The course is for 16 to 18 year olds. You'll need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Maths and English Language or English Literature. Over two years, you'll study how businesses operate, exploring marketing, finance, human resources, and strategy. You'll work through case studies, group projects, and presentations, then complete assignments based on realistic workplace situations.

You'll finish with a Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Diploma in Business.

Who this course is for

These practical work-related courses are designed for students who wish to gain a broad range of knowledge about dynamic business environments. Students must be prepared to work independently and to deadlines. Well-qualified and experienced staff with business backgrounds teach the courses. You will learn through case studies group work and presentations before completing assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations. The courses include a number of visits to local businesses. Guest speakers may be invited to explain how concepts studied in lessons are actually applied in the business environment. All students are encouraged to apply to take part in the Careers ready programme. The College has excellent ICT facilities internet text books case studies business documents and links with real businesses.

Entry requirements

Students are required to have five GCSE passes at grade 4 or above including Mathematics. Students must also have a grade 4 in English Language or English Literature. During the course students are charged for printing and there are also costs incurred when privately buying reliable storage devices to back up their electronic files. In addition a number of trips may be arranged which will require students to make a contribution towards costs.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore how businesses are structured and how they make decisions.
  • You'll study marketing principles, including how businesses reach and keep customers.
  • You'll learn how organisations manage their finances and control costs.
  • You'll examine human resources, including recruitment, training, and employee relations.
  • You'll analyse business strategy and how companies respond to change.
  • You'll develop skills in research, data analysis, and presenting business information.
  • You'll apply your knowledge to realistic workplace scenarios through assignments.

How you will learn

You'll learn through case studies, group work, and presentations in the classroom. Assessment is mainly through assignments based on realistic business situations. Some units include external exams set by Pearson Edexcel. There are also visits to local businesses, which give you a practical view of how organisations work.

What you will need to bring

You'll need to cover some printing costs during the course. You'll also need a reliable storage device to back up your electronic files. Some business trips may be arranged, and you may be asked to contribute towards travel costs. St Brendan's Sixth Form College will confirm any other requirements before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Business administrator, supports the day-to-day running of an organisation.
  • Marketing assistant, helps plan and deliver campaigns for a business.
  • HR administrator, handles recruitment paperwork and employee records.
  • Finance assistant, processes invoices and supports accounts teams.
  • Office manager, oversees admin operations for a small or medium employer.
  • Sales executive, builds client relationships and supports a sales team.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma in Business, a larger qualification covering more specialist units.
  • Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Business, a Level 4 qualification that takes your studies to degree level.
  • Degree in Business Management or a related subject, for those aiming for graduate-level roles.
  • CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice, for those moving into HR.
Apply on stbrn.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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