Debbie Malpas tells us more about Cambridge OCR’s new A Level Business qualification, and why schools should consider teaching it from September 2026…
Cambridge OCR’s newly accredited A Level Business is designed to equip all students with invaluable business knowledge and skills, helping them reach their full potential and realise their aspirations.
Why have you redeveloped your qualification?
The business world has evolved, and A Level Business must reflect this. We reviewed our specification to identify what was still relevant and what needed adapting, removing or adding to ensure it’s useful for students now and in future.
We also wanted our assessments to be as accessible as possible, and to give teachers the support they need, in a way that works for them.
How has the specification been improved?
We know many teachers prefer specifications organised by topic and, often, more than one teacher shares delivery of the course. We’ve re-structured our specification to follow a logical order, with topics that can be divided up in different ways.
It’s also clear, concise and gives as much guidance as possible on what should be covered – no hidden content, no second guessing!
Debbie Malpas
Subject advisor for business and economics
Area of expertise: Drawing on over 20 years’ experience in teaching and leadership roles to provide expert guidance to schools and colleges delivering Cambridge OCR qualifications
How is the qualification relevant today?
It’s important qualifications prepare students for what’s next. We’ve updated our content to reflect current business practice and what will be useful going forward.
We’ve included hybrid working, as many are increasingly likely to work this way, and placed greater emphasis on growing areas such as AI. We’ve also reviewed our theories and models to ensure they focus on those businesses actually use today.
How are your assessments more straightforward?
Our aim is to limit cognitive load on exam days. All our papers have equal weighting, similar question types and a consistent format.
They each cover different content, with only Paper 3 including synoptic elements. Every paper starts with multiple choice questions which can build confidence, and students get a formulae booklet so there’s no need to memorise these.
What support will be available?
We offer a range of resources, including curriculum planners, schemes of work and practice papers. We’re also developing a new textbook and are excited to offer a free digital version to all teachers and students at centres delivering the qualification.
You can also reach out to me for advice or attend one of our professional development courses for more support on everything from the specification to exams.
Find out more about Cambridge OCR’s new A Level Business qualification, and explore their new specification and sample assessment materials, on their website.
- Accessible and straightforward assessments – a consistent structure, low-tariff and multiple choice questions in every paper, and a formulae booklet during exams.
- Business topics for today – modern, relevant content to engage students and prepare them for the real-world. Includes sustainability, work-life balance, and the customer journey.
- Support at every step – feel confident in your teaching thanks to a clear specification, subject advisor, curriculum planners, practice papers, and more. Plus, benefit from access to a free digital student book for every student and staff member that needs it.
