If you are considering taking I/GCSE Business, are already studying it, or are just interested in business, these TV shows offer a different way of seeing the theory in practice.
I’ve included where you can access the TV shows, some of these are only available via subscription services but I’ve included the best shows I’ve come across in the last few years.
Bear in mind, that most of these shows were made with an adult audience in mind so sometimes they may include inappropriate language or behaviour.
BBC (Iplayer)
Dragon’s Den – Entrepreneurs pitch their business ideas to the investors. Great for demonstrating entrepreneurial spirit and the importance of numbers in business.
The Apprentice – Individuals complete to win a job or investment from Sir Alan Sugar. Often demonstrates what not to do as much as what to do. The interview round demonstrates the importance of business plans.
Inside the Factory – Shows different production methods and how they are used by different businesses as well as the impact of technology on production.
Make it at Market – Craft entrepreneurs attempt to make a business from their hobbies, demonstrates the importance of understanding customer needs.
Chanel 5
Asda: What’s Gone Wrong? – Looks at the issues Asda has faced in recent years, shows the factors that can effect growth, success and failure.
M&S: How They Got Back on Top – Shows the importance of keeping up with customer needs and how it’s possible to turn a business around.
Netflix
Costa: How do they do it? – A look at the success of massive coffee shop chain Costa. Great for showing the power of branding.
Buy Now! The Shopping Conspiracy – How marketers trick us into buying things we don’t need, or even want
Why do Men Earn More than Women – Looks at the factors behind the disparity, great for seeing sex discrimination in action.
All4
Risking it All – Follows entrepreneurs start their own small businesses. Good for understanding start up finance and the high failure rate of small businesses.
Undercover Boss – An American series, lots of stuff regarding staff motivation and how out of touch managers can be. Also shows how franchises work.
Double the Money – Game show format where pairs of people try to double their money each week, really interesting to see which ideas work and which don’t, as well as the impact of things no one can control (usually the British weather!).
Rise of the Makers – Series of short programmes showing how different craft based businesses are innovating in their sector.
Inside the Shein Machine – Documentary about Shein that is great for highlighting the role ethics play in business.
Amazon Prime
Business Class – Explores businesses around the world and the entrepreneurs who built them. Great for understanding unique selling points, the impact of stakeholders and motivation.
Ready Set Startup UK – Entrepreneurs compete to win an investment in their business idea. Useful for understanding market segmentation and promotion.
If you’re interested in studying I/GCSE Business, have a look at the courses we offer.