Ireland · NCCA Curriculum Specifications
6th Year Business.
This Leaving Certificate Business curriculum equips Year 6 students with a comprehensive understanding of the business environment, enterprise, and economic principles. Students will critically analyze real-world business scenarios, management strategies, and the impact of the macroeconomic environment on Irish and global markets.

01Enterprise and the Business Environment
An introduction to the fundamental concepts of enterprise, the role of the entrepreneur, and the dynamic relationships between various business stakeholders.
Students explore the concept of enterprise in both business and personal contexts. They examine how enterprise drives economic activity and innovation in Ireland.
This topic investigates the various stakeholders involved in a business, including investors, employers, employees, and consumers. Students analyze the dynamic relationships and potential conflicts among these groups.
Students analyze the characteristics and skills of successful entrepreneurs. The topic highlights the economic importance of entrepreneurship in job creation and wealth generation.

02Management Skills and Activities
A deep dive into the essential skills required to manage a business effectively, covering leadership, human resources, and financial management.
Students evaluate different leadership styles and motivational theories used in modern workplaces. They assess how effective management impacts employee productivity and morale.
This topic covers the fundamentals of business finance, including cash flow forecasting, sources of finance, and the Irish taxation system. Students learn to interpret financial data to make informed business decisions.
Students explore the functions of a Human Resource Manager, from recruitment and selection to training and performance appraisal. The topic emphasizes the strategic importance of HR in achieving business goals.

03Business in Action
An exploration of how businesses operate in competitive markets, focusing on market research, the marketing mix, and strategies for expansion.
Students learn how businesses identify consumer needs through primary and secondary market research. They analyze how data informs product development and marketing strategies.
This topic delves into the four Ps of marketing: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. Students apply these concepts to develop comprehensive marketing strategies for hypothetical products.
Students examine the reasons for and methods of business expansion, including organic growth, mergers, and acquisitions. They evaluate the financial and operational implications of scaling a business.

04The Macroeconomic and International Environment
An analysis of the external factors affecting business operations, including government policy, international trade, and the European Union.
Students analyze the role of the Irish government in regulating and supporting business. They explore how fiscal and monetary policies influence the domestic economic climate.
This topic explores the significance of international trade for an open economy like Ireland. Students assess the impact of exchange rates, tariffs, and global competition on Irish exporters.
Students evaluate the impact of European Union membership on Irish businesses, focusing on the Single Market and EU policies. They analyze the opportunities and challenges presented by EU integration.
Students critically examine the ethical responsibilities of businesses towards society and the environment. They explore the concept of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and its impact on brand reputation.