Free Level 3 Business Course in Manchester – Loreto Sixth Form College

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyOCR awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Business Course in Manchester. Classes run at Loreto Sixth Form College, full-time over two years.

The course covers the main functions of a business. You'll study the business environment, customer communication, accounting concepts, and business ethics. It also looks at how external factors shape business decisions. The course is equivalent to one A Level and is awarded by OCR.

You'll need six GCSEs at grade 4 or above to apply, including at least two at grade 6, and two from English, Maths, or Science. You'll finish with a Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate in Business.

Who this course is for

Applied Business is an exciting vocational alternative to A Level Business. It is aimed at developing your knowledge of the main functions of a business: Business environment, customers and communication, accounting concepts, business ethics and looking at how businesses might be affected by the external environment.

You will study an OCR Cambridge Technical Extended certificate in Business which is a two-year course equivalent to 1 A level. It is suitable for students who are interested in studying Business via a combination of coursework and exam assessments.

Entry requirements

Six GCSEs 9-4 (or A*-C)

Two at least grade 6 (or B)

Two from English, Maths OR Science.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore how businesses operate in different environments.
  • You'll study how businesses communicate with and serve their customers.
  • You'll learn core accounting concepts used in business decision-making.
  • You'll examine business ethics and responsible practice.
  • You'll analyse how external factors, such as economic and social change, affect businesses.
  • You'll develop skills in planning, analysis, and presenting business information.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based lessons at the college. The OCR Cambridge Technical is assessed through a mix of coursework and external examinations. Units are assessed individually, so your work builds throughout the two years rather than all being tested at the end.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Loreto Sixth Form College 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.
  • Marketing assistant, helps plan and deliver marketing campaigns.
  • HR assistant, supports recruitment, records, and staff queries.
  • Accounts assistant, handles invoices, payments, and financial records.
  • Office coordinator, manages schedules and communications for a team.
  • Customer service team leader, oversees a customer-facing team.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Extended Diploma in Business, a broader qualification covering more units at the same level.
  • Higher National Certificate in Business, a Level 4 qualification that takes your studies further.
  • Degree in Business Management or a related subject, for those aiming for graduate-level roles.
  • Level 3 AAT Diploma in Accounting, if the accounting units sparked an interest in finance.

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