The Oratory introduces BTEC Business for September 2025
The Oratory School is pleased to offer the BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Business as a 6th Form option from September. This qualification will sit within the Economics and Business department, alongside the existing suite of popular A levels in Economics and Business.
Recognised by the UK’s top universities, the BTEC Business programme is ideal for students looking for a more practical learning experience. It is designed to help students develop the commercial knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the world of business. This is the first BTEC to be introduced to The Oratory’s extensive 6th Form subject portfolio. It is a two-year programme that is the equivalent of one A Level, and carries the equivalent UCAS points. This vocational course, which is administered by Pearson, offers an alternative to A Levels. It will enable students to study topics such as business development and strategy; financial planning and accounting; marketing; and recruitment and selection.
The Oratory’s Head of Economics and Business, Vishal Handa, is excited by this new addition; given his previous corporate experience, he is always looking to add a ‘real world’ dimension to students’ learning. Prior to teaching, Vishal worked in the City of London as an investment banker, executive search consultant, and an ICF-accredited coach, careers mentor and trainer. Vishal brings his extensive knowledge, insight into a range of industries and networks direct to Oratory students. Vishal read Economics at The London School of Economics (LSE) and obtained a Master’s degree (MPhil) from Cambridge University. Prior to joining The Oratory, Vishal was Deputy Head of 6th Form, Head of Economics, and Teacher of Mathematics and Business at St James Senior Boys’ School in Surrey. Vishal says, “My main motivation has always been to bring out the best in people, and this is what attracted me to teaching. There is no better feeling than helping students find clarity and direction in life.”
The BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Business is widely accepted by universities and also offers routes into apprenticeships and direct employment. It can lead to diverse career paths in areas such as business administration, marketing, and human resources.
Caryn Harward, Assistant Head (Director of Studies), says “We are delighted to offer the BTEC Business for our forthcoming academic year, providing students with the opportunity to gain insight into the working world. Lessons will be based around local and international business case studies and within each unit, students will conduct research, give presentations, produce papers, and take part in group work. Limited spaces for this course are still available and potential candidates are advised to express interest as soon as possible, by emailing admissions@oratory.co.uk”