Statement of Intent 

We aim to develop student’s awareness and understanding of what makes an enterprise successful and to enthuse them in considering becoming an entrepreneur. We want students to recognise that they themselves may possess the skills and characteristics of a successful entrepreneur and seek to provide support and grow their confidence in having the courage to contemplate and take considered risks to run their own micro-enterprise. We want students to develop their critical analytical thinking skills to carry out effective research to identify new opportunities to satisfy customer needs and adapt to changing trends in order to maximise sales. We also want them to be aware of the need to monitor competitor behaviour, take proactive measures to protect their 'brand' reputation such as excellent customer service that allows them to main the competitive edge and ensure the viability of an enterprise. This branding includes the importance of unique selling points and the need to be socially responsible which supports the school’s intent in suing their skills and talents to make the world a better place. We will provide opportunities for students to gain the confidence and skills in running their own micro-enterprise in a supportive manner and we acknowledge the importance of recognising and celebrating the positive contributions of their wider family in the local community through running their own enterprises in different industries which supports enterprises cultural capital.  Students will also gain experience and be comfortable with using the financial processes and modelling used by micro/small enterprises such as business plans and cash flow forecasting that will support them should they choose to launch their own enterprise. They will also be confident in using and interacting with other stakeholders such as potential investors using specialised vocabulary and key terminology that improves their oracy and self-expression which thus promotes both their employability and future success. 

Purpose

The Pearson BTEC Level 1/Level 2 Tech Award in Enterprise (603/7063/4) is for learners who want to acquire sector-specific applied knowledge and practices through vocational contexts by studying enterprises, entrepreneurs, customers, competitors, the external environment, business planning and presenting, marketing and finance as part of their Key Stage 4 learning. The qualification enables learners to develop their transferable skills, such as researching, planning, making decisions and judgements, and financial literacy using realistic vocational contexts, and personal skills, such as creativity and innovation, time management, reviewing, communication and planning through a practical and skills-based approach to learning and assessment. The qualification recognises the value of learning skills, knowledge and vocational attributes to complement GCSEs. The qualification will broaden learners’ experience and understanding of the varied progression options available to them.

The Tech Award gives learners the opportunity to develop sector-specific applied knowledge and understanding through realistic vocational contexts. Learners will have the opportunity to develop applied knowledge and skills in the following areas:

•  knowledge that underpins an effective use of skills, such as the activities, skills and characteristics of enterprises and entrepreneurs, and the internal and external factors that can affect the success of an enterprise; in addition, the process of developing a business plan and using and applying marketing and finance knowledge
• development of key skills that prove aptitude in planning an enterprise idea, including market research, planning, carrying out financial transactions, communication and problem solving
• attitudes and ways of working that are considered most important for enterprise, including monitoring and reflecting on the performance of an enterprise idea and own use of skills.

Cultural Capital

Students develop an understanding and an appreciation of the business world, goods and services and the concepts of enterprise and entrepreneurship. Students develop their understanding and appreciation of marketing and how companies focus on key demographics. They understand and appreciate human resources, recruitment, training, motivation, and organisation. They develop a sense of the world of work and how this is organised and how it will affect them in later life.