What Is the Pearson BTEC International Level 2 Certificate in Business?

The Pearson BTEC International Level 2 Certificate in Business gives learners a broader introduction to business than the Award. It is designed to sit alongside other subjects, and Pearson describes it as the size of two International GCSEs.

What do learners study?

The Certificate has 240 guided learning hours. GLH means the time learners spend in lessons or other learning guided by a teacher.

Learners study at least six units. Four are required for every learner:

• Business Purposes
• Business Organisations
• Financial Forecasting for Business
• The Marketing Plan

The remaining units are selected from Pearson’s optional unit list. This gives a centre some choice about the business topics it teaches, while keeping the required parts of the course in place. Check the current specification and unit structure before deciding which options to deliver.

How does assessment work?

All units are assessed internally. For the four required units, Pearson provides a Set Assignment and the teacher marks the learner’s work. Optional units use internal assessment too; their assignments are set by the centre in line with Pearson’s unit guidance.

So “internal assessment” and “Pearson Set Assignment” are not two separate assessment types. The set assignment is one way an internally assessed unit is completed. Read the Level 2 Business overview for the course structure, or compare the Level 2 Award and Level 2 Extended Certificate.

What can teachers use this qualification for?

The Certificate can work well when business is one part of a wider programme. When planning, make sure the chosen unit combination meets Pearson’s rules and that the team has time to teach and assess each unit. If learners will focus more heavily on business, compare this option with the Extended Certificate.

Confirm detailed requirements in Pearson’s official specification.