Level 3 Applied Extended Certificate in Business
New for the 2026-2028 cohort, the Level 3 Applied Extended Certificate in Business provides learners with an array of knowledge in a range of business concepts and processes. It serves as an excellent foundation for learners looking to go on to further study, and specialise in a particular area of business.
Year 12 – Applied Certificate
During Year 12, learners will study eight areas of content:
- Exploring business fundamentals;
- Marketing principles for business success;
- Managing business finance;
- Coordinating efficient business operations;
- Developing skills for business;
- Managing ethical business operations;
- Sustainable business.
Through these areas, learners will develop an understanding of different business types, types of market, business aims and objectives, and stakeholders. Additionally, they will be introduced to key functional areas of business, such as marketing, finance, and HR.
Their studies will culminate in two assessments; a written exam (Business Skills and Functions), and an internal assessment (Business Creation), which comprise a series of tasks set by the WJEC. Both assessments cover all the topics studied throughout the year, giving learners ample opportunity to demonstrate their understanding, and apply their knowledge.
Year 13 – Applied Extended Certificate
In Year 13, learners will build on the concepts and skills from Year 12, studying eleven areas of content:
- Exploring business strategies;
- The use of budgeting as a planning tool;
- Using sales forecasts;
- Using technology to drive change;
- Exploring economies and diseconomies of scale;
- Using SWOT analysis to aid decision-making;
- Measuring business performance;
- Making investment decisions;
- Taking an environmental, social, and governance approach;
- The impact of the external environment on business operations;
- Trading in the global business environment.
Together, these areas help learners to develop their understanding of business strategy, using tools to support informed decision making, while considering external influences. Studies of SWOT analysis, sales forecasts, and measuring performance provide learners with practical skills, applicable to all areas of business.
Learners will complete two assessments, a written exam (Business Strategy) and internal assessment (Business Investigation). These cover all content studied in Year 13, and may reference some topics covered in Year 12.
WHAT THE LEARNERS SAY:
“Business covers so many important topics, from finance to marketing. It gives you a better understanding of how big business decisions impact the UK and the world.”
Careers that may be of interest to those undertaking business qualifications are:
- Finance – Accountant, Investment Management, Data Analyst
- Marketing – Public Relations, Events Coordinator, Advertising Campaign Manager
- Human Resources – HR Manager, Talent Recruiter, Career Advisor, Union Representative
- Business Management – All areas of management throughout various industries