Careers start here.

Your Study Options

    Please note that all courses are subject to a minimum number in order to run

    Unfortunately, due to high demand for places applications for our full-time courses for 16–18 year olds starting in September 2025 are now closed.
    If you're interested in applying for a course in September 2026, we will open applications on 16th October 2025

    About the course

    This course will give students the potential opportunity to progress to the level 2 qualification in business, or to develop skills that will be valuable in a variety of full-time employment opportunities.

    Qualification

    Gateway Level 1 Diploma in Business and Retail

    How much does it cost?

    Free to those aged 16-18.

    Costs of any educational trips or workshops will be communicated throughout the year.

    £75 deposit towards college iPad (bursary options available).

    Awarding Body

    Gateway

    Why study?

    The course will revolve around a series of business and employability projects. Each project will consist of a number of modules, all of which will need to be passed to complete the overall project. It is a more holistic approach to teaching and learning, providing the students the opportunity to build up their portfolios and develop the key skills needed for the industry. 

    Core modules

    • Communication Skills for Work
    • Working in Business and Retail

    Optional modules

    Including but not limited to:

    • Digital Marketing
    • Visual Merchandising
    • Exploring and Presenting Enterprise Ideas
    • Using social media for Business
    • The Retail Industry
    • Interview Skills

    How will I be assessed?

    All units are assessed by coursework, split into projects of various sizes throughout the year.

    Where will this course take me?

    • Business administrator 
    • Finance assistant 
    • HR assistant 
    • Marketing assistant 
    • Retail assistant

    The chance to be self-employed - it's not unusual to go freelance, work as a contractor or even start your own  company!

    Opportunities to work abroad - many large  companies have branches or subsidiaries in other countries! 

    A higher than average starting salary – After completing higher level qualifications!

    Will I have to provide anything?

    Pen, Notepad and Headphones.

    I'm interested. What should I do now?

    Call 01279 868100 and talk to an Admissions Adviser
    Ask Us a question about this course

    Funding Your Course

    If you're aged 19 or over and you want to study an Access to Higher Education Diploma, or a Level 3 to 6 Vocational Qualification, you could be eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan.