Syllabus

Cambridge IGCSE™
Enterprise 0454
Use this syllabus for exams in 2023.
Exams are available in the June and November series.

Version 1
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Contents

1  Why choose this syllabus? ..................................................................................................... 2

2  Syllabus overview .................................................................................................................... 5

Aims 5
Content overview 6
Assessment overview 7
Assessment objectives 8

3  Subject content .........................................................................................................................9

4  Details of the assessment ................................................................................................... 20

Component 1 Written Paper 20
Component 2 Coursework 20
Outline of coursework tasks 21
Details of the coursework 22
Checklist of evidence 30
Guidance for centres on coursework 31
Command words 33

5  What else you need to know .............................................................................................. 34

Before you start 34
Making entries 35
After the exam 36
How students and teachers can use the grades 36
Grade descriptions 36
Changes to this syllabus for 2023 37

Important: Changes to this syllabus

For information about changes to this syllabus for 2023, go to page 37.
The latest syllabus is version 1, published September 2020. There are no significant changes which affect
teaching.
Any textbooks endorsed to support the syllabus for examination from 2020 are still suitable for use with this
syllabus.
Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.

1  Why choose this syllabus?

Key benefits
Cambridge IGCSE is the world’s most popular international qualification for 14 to 16 year olds, although it can be
taken by students of other ages. It is tried, tested and trusted.

Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise encourages learners to develop their understanding and the practical skills associated
with the work environment and the running of a small enterprise. The syllabus provides the knowledge associated
with running a small enterprise and an opportunity for learners to apply this knowledge in a practical and engaging
way when running their own enterprise project.

We encourage learners to study enterprise in a local as well as a global context, while enhancing their skills of
investigation, analysis, interpretation, evaluation and practical problem-solving.

Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise provides opportunities for learners to meet with and talk to a range of people involved
in enterprise such as:
• people who have set up and run their own enterprise
• people involved in supporting enterprises, e.g. financiers, local business organisations, and government
organisations
• people who have shown enterprising skills, e.g. innovators, inventors, marketing professionals.

Our programmes balance a thorough knowledge and understanding of a subject and help to develop the skills
learners need for their next steps in education or employment.

Our approach encourages learners to be:

Cambridge
learner

‘The strength of Cambridge IGCSE qualifications is internationally recognised and has provided
an international pathway for our students to continue their studies around the world.’
Gary Tan, Head of Schools and CEO, Raffles International Group of Schools, Indonesia

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 Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Why choose this syllabus?

International recognition and acceptance

Our expertise in curriculum, teaching and learning, and assessment is the basis for the recognition of our
programmes and qualifications around the world. The combination of knowledge and skills in Cambridge IGCSE
Enterprise gives learners a solid foundation for further study. Candidates who achieve grades A* to C are well
prepared to follow a wide range of courses including Cambridge International AS & A Levels.

Cambridge IGCSEs are accepted and valued by leading universities and employers around the world as evidence of
academic achievement. Many universities require a combination of Cambridge International AS & A Levels and
Cambridge IGCSEs or equivalent to meet their entry requirements.

UK NARIC, the national agency in the UK for the recognition and comparison of international qualifications and
skills, has carried out an independent benchmarking study of Cambridge IGCSE and found it to be comparable to
the standard of the reformed GCSE in the UK. This means students can be confident that their Cambridge IGCSE
qualifications are accepted as equivalent to UK GCSEs by leading universities worldwide.

Learn more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/recognition

‘Cambridge IGCSE is one of the most sought-after and recognised qualifications in the world. It
is very popular in Egypt because it provides the perfect preparation for success at advanced level
programmes.’
Managing Director of British School in Egypt BSE

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Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Why choose this syllabus?

Supporting teachers
We provide a wide range of resources, detailed guidance and innovative training and professional development so
that you can give your students the best possible preparation for Cambridge IGCSE. To find out which resources are
available for each syllabus go to our School Support Hub.

The School Support Hub is our secure online site for Cambridge teachers where you can find the resources you need
to deliver our programmes. You can also keep up to date with your subject and the global Cambridge community
through our online discussion forums.

Find out more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/support

Planning and preparation Teaching and assessment

•  Next step guides •  Endorsed resources
•  Schemes of work • Online forums
•  Specimen papers •  Support for coursework and speaking tests
• Syllabuses
•  Teacher guides
Support
for Cambridge
IGCSE
Learning and revision  Results
•  Example candidate responses •  Candidate Results Service
•  Learner guides •  Principal examiner reports for teachers
•  Past papers and mark schemes •  Results Analysis
•  Specimen paper answers

Sign up for email notifications about changes to syllabuses, including new and revised products and services at
www.cambridgeinternational.org/syllabusupdates

Professional development
We support teachers through:
• Introductory Training – face-to-face or online
• Extension Training – face-to-face or online
• Enrichment Professional Development – face-to-face or online
Find out more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/events

• Cambridge Professional Development Qualifications

Find out more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/profdev

Supporting exams officers

We provide comprehensive support and guidance for all Cambridge exams officers. Find out more at:
www.cambridgeinternational.org/eoguide

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 Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.

2  Syllabus overview

Aims
The aims describe the purposes of a course based on this syllabus.

The aims are to enable students to:

• understand what it means to be enterprising, and the skills required to be enterprising
• develop the ability to work in an enterprising and independent way
• develop and apply knowledge, understanding and skills to contemporary enterprise issues in a range of local,
national and global contexts
• appreciate the roles and perspectives of a range of other people and organisations involved in enterprise and
the importance of ethical considerations
• investigate the world of work and entrepreneurial organisations
• develop the ability to communicate effectively, in a variety of situations, using a range of appropriate
techniques
• make effective use of relevant terms, concepts and methods when discussing enterprise and enterprising
behaviour.

Cambridge Assessment International Education is an education organisation and politically neutral.

The contents of this syllabus, examination papers and associated materials do not endorse any political
view. We endeavour to treat all aspects of the exam process neutrally.

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Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Syllabus overview

Content overview
As part of the course, learners develop their enterprise skills by planning and implementing their own enterprise
project. This project will give learners the opportunity to gain practical experience of using the knowledge and skills
outlined below.

All learners will study the following topics:

1 Introduction to enterprise
2 Setting up a new enterprise
3 Enterprise skills
4 Enterprise opportunities, risk, legal obligations and ethical considerations
5 Negotiation
6 Finance
7 Business planning
8 Markets and customers
9 Help and support for enterprise
10 Communication.

All learners will complete the following tasks for their enterprise project in the coursework:
• Task 1 Choosing a suitable project, including a formal written report of approximately 1200 words.
• Task 2 Planning the project, including the following:
– Task 2a Planning to manage potential problems or issues in the action plan
– Task 2b EITHER planning for financing the project OR planning marketing communications.
• Task 3 Using enterprise skills to implement the plan
• Task 4 Evaluating the project, including a formal written report of approximately 1500 words that evaluates:
– the planning and implementation of the project (compulsory)
and one of the following:
– the financial success of the project (optional)
– the marketing communications used (optional)
– the internal communications used (optional).

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 Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Syllabus overview

Assessment overview
All candidates take two components. Candidates will be eligible for grades A* to G.

All candidates take: and:

Component 1 1 hour 30 minutes Component 2

Written Paper 50% Coursework 50%
100 marks 60 marks
Short-answer, structured and open-ended Portfolio of evidence from tasks based on
questions candidate’s own enterprise project
This paper is based on a pre-released Internally assessed and externally moderated
case study
Candidates answer all questions
Externally assessed

Information on availability is in the Before you start section.

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Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Syllabus overview

Assessment objectives
The assessment objectives (AOs) are:

AO1 Knowledge and understanding

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the concepts, skills and terminology relating to enterprise

AO2 Application
Apply knowledge and critical understanding to familiar and unfamiliar enterprise problems and issues. Develop
communication materials appropriate for the intended audience and purpose

AO3 Analysis and evaluation

Analyse, interpret, and evaluate information. Explore and find solutions to enterprise problems and issues

Weighting for assessment objectives

The approximate weightings allocated to each of the assessment objectives (AOs) are summarised below.

Assessment objectives as a percentage of the qualification

Assessment objective Weighting in IGCSE %

AO1 Knowledge and understanding 24

AO2 Application 33

AO3 Analysis and evaluation 43

Total 100

Assessment objectives as a percentage of each component

Assessment objective Weighting in components %

Paper 1 Paper 2

AO1 Knowledge and understanding 38 10

AO2 Application 30 35

AO3 Analysis and evaluation 32 55

Total 100 100

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 Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.

3  Subject content

This syllabus gives you the flexibility to design a course that will interest, challenge and engage your learners.
Where appropriate you are responsible for selecting suitable topics, subject contexts, resources and examples to
support your learners’ study. These should be appropriate for the learners’ age, cultural background and learning
context as well as complying with your school policies and local legal requirements.

The topics for enterprise are shown below. Further guidance, including examples, are shown on the right.
Candidates study all topics. In this section, topics that link directly to Component 2 Coursework are marked with
a cw icon. Guidance that is specific to Component 1 Written Paper is shown in italics.

1 Introduction to enterprise
1.1 What is meant by enterprise
Topic Further guidance
What enterprise is Including:
• enterprise capability (being innovative, creative,
taking and managing risks, positive attitude)
• business enterprise
• social enterprise.

Who stakeholders are Examples of stakeholders include:

• customers and consumers
• employees, employers
• suppliers
• lenders
• the local business community
• local government.

1.2 Ways for students to be enterprising in everyday life

Topic Further guidance
Ways of being enterprising: Ways include:
• at school • using technology for learning
• at home. • working/learning as part of a team
• making reasoned evaluations
• developing new skills and using them in different
situations
• problem-solving
• thinking creatively, e.g. finding creative solutions
• taking initiative, e.g. finding ways to earn money
or taking the lead
• organising activities, e.g. a charity event.

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Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Subject content

2 Setting up a new enterprise

2.1 The enterprise process
Topic Further guidance
Six stages of the enterprise process: cw Candidates follow this process when working on
their enterprise project.
1 identifying the problem or need or want
2 exploring creative solutions
3 action planning
4 implementing the plan
5 monitoring progress
6 evaluation of successes and failures.

2.2 Types of business organisation

Topic Further guidance
Different kinds of organisation, including: Candidates should consider the following for each
type:
• sole trader
• partnership • legal status
• limited company • advantages and disadvantages of each type for a
new enterprise.
• co-operative
• franchise
Candidates will not be assessed on:
• social enterprise: charities, not-for-profit
organisations. • limited liability partnerships (LLPs)
• community interest companies (CICs).

3 Enterprise skills
3.1 Skills of enterprising people
Topic Further guidance
Enterprise skills may include: Recognise that some people have these skills
naturally and others have to develop them,
• the practical skills and knowledge to create
e.g. self-confidence.
products and services
The term ‘skills’ is used here to cover attributes,
• leadership
characteristics and learned skills.
• influencing skills
Different people combine and use these skills in
• team-building many ways.
• delegation
• problem-solving
• prioritisation/time management
• self-confidence
• resourcefulness
• innovation topic continued

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 Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Subject content

3.1 Skills of enterprising people (continued)

Topic Further guidance
Enterprise skills may include (continued):
• taking initiative
• taking calculated risks
• taking responsibility
• motivation/determination to succeed
• creativity
• perseverance.

Identifying and evaluating your own skills cw Candidates will identify and evaluate their own
skills during their enterprise project.

3.2 Behaviours of entrepreneurs

Topic Further guidance
How entrepreneurs use their enterprise skills Candidates should be familiar with named
entrepreneurs from the local community and wider
society. You may find an example in your school.
Candidates should be able to recognise how the
entrepreneurs studied use enterprise skills.

4 Enterprise opportunities, risk, legal obligations and ethical considerations

4.1 Opportunities
Topic Further guidance
How opportunities arise, including: Opportunities for enterprise may be local, national,
international or global.
• changing needs or wants for a product (good or
service) Reasons why needs or wants for a product (good or
service) might change include:
• change in the ability to meet needs or wants
• advances in technology • changes in taste and fashion
• changes in government policy. • changes in the size and structure of population
• changes in real income.

Examples of changes in government policy include:

• availability of grants and subsidies
• changes in taxation
• changes in the law.

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Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Subject content

4.2 Risk
Topic Further guidance
Risks involved in enterprise Risks may be in the following areas:
• financial
• economic
• health and safety/environmental
• human resources
• production.

Identify risks Research including:

• SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and
threats)
• PEST (political, economic, social, technological).

Analyse the implications of each risk Balance the potential negative outcomes against the
potential positive outcomes (rewards).
Decide if the risk is worth taking or not Including recognising that some risks would lead to
rejecting the enterprise idea.
Plan how to manage the risks By avoiding, minimising or maximising the risk.
Attitudes to risk Attitudes to risk include: risk-averse, risk reducer,
risk-keen.
Recognise that different attitudes to risk can affect
how an entrepreneur manages the risk.

4.3 Legal obligations

Topic Further guidance
Why laws and regulations to protect stakeholders are Candidates will not be assessed on specific laws.
needed in the areas of:
• employment
• production
• marketing and selling
• finance.

The impact of laws and regulations on all

stakeholders in these areas

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 Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Subject content

4.4 Ethical considerations

Topic Further guidance
How an enterprise may have an impact on The impact on society may be positive or negative.
communities and society For example:
• supporting community activities
• creating pollution.

Ethical considerations within enterprise (i.e. choosing Including:

to run an enterprise following moral values and
• fair trade
beliefs)
• organic farming
• donating profits to charity.
The impact of ethical considerations on the operation
of an enterprise

5 Negotiation
5.1 The negotiation process
Topic Further guidance
What negotiation is A process that can involve:
• resolving disputes
• agreeing upon courses of action
• bargaining for individual or collective advantage
• reaching outcomes to satisfy the interests of
those involved.

cw Candidates will be required to plan and conduct a

negotiation as part of their enterprise project.
Stages in the negotiation process: • setting objectives
• planning • choosing evidence to use
• benefits of a proposal
• weaknesses of a proposal
• arguments and counter-arguments for the
proposal.

• conducting the negotiation • setting the tone

• presenting your proposal
• understanding each other’s point of view
• summarising to check understanding
• reaching agreement.

• measuring success. • what went well

• how to improve next time.

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Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Subject content

6 Finance
6.1 Sources of finance
Topic Further guidance
Advantages and disadvantages of different sources of: Sources including:
• start-up funding • personal savings (used as owners’ capital)
• family and friends
• bank overdrafts, loans, leasing and mortgages
• community sources, including charities and social
enterprises
• grants and subsidies
• crowdfunding
• selling shares.

• funding for continuing trade and expansion. • personal savings (used as owners’ capital)
• retained profit
• private institutions
• venture capital
• issuing shares.

cw Candidates have the option to prepare financial

planning materials for their enterprise project.

6.2 The concept of trade credit

Topic Further guidance
Advantages and disadvantages of trade credit For:
• entrepreneurs and suppliers (trade payables)
• entrepreneurs and customers (trade receivables).

6.3 Financial terms

Topic Further guidance
Cash flow forecast cash inflows, cash outflows, surplus and deficit.
Break-even variable costs, fixed costs, total cost, contribution.
Income statement profit and loss, income, revenue, expenditure, debt.
Note: charitable organisations do not make a profit,
they record a surplus.

Candidates will need to define and provide examples of

terms and make calculations where appropriate.

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 Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Subject content

6.4 Financial records

Topic Further guidance
The purpose and importance of keeping accurate Candidates should understand the purpose of
financial records income statements and budgets, including cash flow
forecasts.
Reasons for keeping accurate financial records
include:
• the need to provide a true and fair view to
stakeholders
• legal and taxation purposes
• forecasting
• decision-making for owners/shareholders.

How to prepare a simple budget, including a cash Candidates may need to make simple calculations in
flow forecast, and an income statement for an relation to the pre-released case study.
enterprise

7 Business planning
7.1 Business objectives
Topic Further guidance
Different enterprises have different aims and Recognise that objectives are shorter term and aims
objectives are long term.
The range of objectives may include:
• ethical, not-for-profit, social, belief-based
• legal compliance
• profit
• sales revenue
• cash flow
• growth
• survival.

How aims influence the activities of enterprises For example:

• promoting healthy eating in schools
• maximising growth.

7.2 Action plans

Topic Further guidance
The purpose and importance of action plans cw Candidates are required to produce an action plan
Contents of action plans for their enterprise project.
Methods of monitoring action plans
The importance of updating action plans

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Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Subject content

7.3 Business plans

Topic
The purpose and importance of business plans
Contents of business plans
Methods of monitoring business plans
Reasons for updating business plans

8 Markets and customers

8.1 The purpose of marketing
Topic Further guidance
Marketing to achieve enterprise aims Including:
• increasing consumer awareness of the enterprise,
product (good or service)
• establishing and maintaining brand loyalty
• increasing or defending sales, market share or
profit.

Marketing from the perspective of customers Including:

• greater knowledge of the enterprise, product
(good or service)
• the ability to make more informed decisions.

8.2 Market research

Topic Further guidance
Methods of identifying potential customers Primary and secondary research.
The effectiveness of methods for different enterprises Advantages and disadvantages of each method, in
terms of:
• cost
• availability
• suitability for the enterprise
• suitability for reaching the potential target
market
• other potential advantages/disadvantages.
The effectiveness will depend on the relevant local
context.

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 Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Subject content

8.3 Customer retention

Topic Further guidance
The reasons for retaining customers Including:
• establishing and maintaining brand loyalty
• increasing or defending sales, market share or
profit.

Methods of measuring customer satisfaction and Including:

retention
• number of sales and complaints
• mystery shopper feedback questionnaires
• focus groups.

Methods of retaining existing customers Including:

• effective customer service
• resolving complaints
• loyalty rewards
• new products and services.

8.4 Marketing communications

Topic Further guidance
Methods of marketing communication to reach Including:
intended customers
• television, radio, cinema, newspapers and
magazines
• posters, leaflets
• online communication and social media
• word of mouth and announcements
• sponsorship.

Selecting appropriate methods for different Advantages and disadvantages of each method, in
enterprises terms of:
• cost
• availability
• suitability for the enterprise
• suitability for reaching the potential target
market.
• other potential advantages and disadvantages.

Appropriate methods will depend on the relevant

local context.
cw Candidates have the option to produce marketing
communications for their enterprise project.

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Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Subject content

9 Help and support for enterprise

9.1 Sources of help and support
Topic Further guidance
Formal sources and the assistance they offer Sources including:
• government/business agencies
• consultants
• financial institutions
• charities
• teachers
• business networks
• other entrepreneurs.

Informal sources and the assistance they offer Sources including:

• friends and peers
• family.

Suitability of different sources of help and support for The suitability will depend on the relevant local
the enterprise context.

10 Communication
10.1 Types of communication
Topic Further guidance
Formal and informal communication Recognise that methods of communication can be
formal or informal depending on the audience, e.g.:
• writing a formal report for investors
• sending an email to a friend
• having a formal business meeting
• talking to a friend at lunch.

cw Candidates are required to write formal reports

for their enterprise project.
Recognise and provide examples of how and
why language changes in formal and informal
communication.
topic continued

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 Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Subject content

10.1 Types of communication (continued)

Topic Further guidance
Verbal and non-verbal communication For example, how body language affects
communication in face-to-face conversations.
Appropriateness of different types of communication Internal stakeholders, such as:
for communicating with internal and external
• managers
stakeholders
• employees
• shareholders
• owners.

External stakeholders, such as:

• suppliers
• customers
• banks
• the local community
• local government.

10.2 Meetings and presentations

Topic Further guidance
The need for careful planning, considering possible Ways include:
outcomes before, during and after the event
• being well planned (so that all attendees know
when to arrive and what to bring)
• having a clear focus
• keeping to time
• ensuring everyone has an opportunity to speak.

Documents for meetings and presentations The importance of providing appropriate documents.
Documents for formal meetings include:
• notice of meeting
• agenda
• minutes.

Documents for presentations, include:

• visual aids
• handouts.

A formal report might be used to support a meeting

or presentation.
cw Candidates give a presentation as part of their
enterprise project.
The need to analyse and evaluate if meetings or Ways include:
presentations have been successful
• analysing and evaluating decisions made
• deciding if objectives were achieved.

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Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.

4  Details of the assessment

Component 1 Written Paper

Written paper, 1 hour 30 minutes, 100 marks

The paper requires candidates to demonstrate and apply their enterprise knowledge, comment on issues and
solve problems. Candidates need to support their answers with references to a pre-released case study, their own
enterprise project and to the subject content.

The paper has two sections. Section A comprises five short-answer and structured-response questions which may
include calculations. Section B comprises two open-ended questions that require longer responses. Candidates
answer all questions.

The pre-released case study is available as a download from www.cambridgeinternational.org. Please check the
Cambridge Handbook for the year of examination for the date the case study will be available. The case study may
include data presented in tables.

Candidates should be aware of the marks for each part question. These are printed on the question paper.
Candidates should use them as a guide to the amount of detail and length of response expected and to help them
manage their time effectively.

The paper assesses the following assessment objectives:

AO1: Knowledge and understanding
AO2: Application
AO3: Analysis and evaluation.

Externally assessed

Component 2 Coursework
Portfolio of evidence based on an enterprise project, 60 marks

Check the samples database at www.cambridgeinternational.org/samples for submission information, forms and
deadlines for Component 2.

Candidates plan and run an enterprise project. They can work alone or in groups no larger than six. Candidates
working alone should carry out a small, simple project that allows them to complete all the activities themselves.
Groups should choose a larger, more complex project so each person can play a separate, defined role. You should
plan your teaching to support candidates as they follow the enterprise process detailed in Section 2.1 of the subject
content.

To support your candidates, ensure they choose projects that give them scope to focus on planning their own
actions for their individual role in the enterprise project. This is to ensure that candidates are able to submit work
that is individual to them.

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 Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Details of the assessment

Candidates are assessed on their individual role and how they use their enterprise skills to plan, run and evaluate
the project. The purpose of the tasks is for candidates to demonstrate how well they can apply enterprise skills, and
analyse and evaluate enterprise issues. The project does not need to succeed for candidates to complete the tasks
and gain marks.

Internally assessed and externally moderated.

Outline of coursework tasks

Task 1 Choosing a suitable project
Candidates use their enterprise knowledge and skills to explore two or three ideas for projects. They then select
the most suitable project, using data collected and analysis to justify their decision. For Task 1, candidates submit a
formal written report of approximately 1200 words.

Task 2 Planning the project

Task 2a Planning to manage potential problems or issues in the action plan
Candidates, whether working alone or in a group, should produce an action plan to prepare for their enterprise
project. They need to plan their activities for each stage of the project, including how they will set up, run and
monitor the project.

For Task 2a each individual candidate identifies two or three significant activities from the action plan, identifies
potential problems and issues and describes how they plan to manage each problem or issue. Candidates submit
written evidence of their planning to manage these problems or issues.

Task 2b Planning for financing the project OR planning marketing communications

Each candidate researches and decides on three or four suitable sources for either financing the enterprise project
or methods of marketing communications. Each candidate gives a presentation on their proposals, demonstrating
their communication and enterprise skills.

Candidates submit written evidence of their planning to support their presentation, which can last up to five
minutes.

Task 3 Using enterprise skills to implement the plan

Candidates put their plan into action and run their enterprise project. Each individual candidate submits a written
record of how they used five enterprise skills from Section 3.1 of the subject content of their own during the
project. One skill must be negotiation. Candidates must only write about their own skills.

Each candidate must plan and conduct a negotiation as part of the enterprise project (for example, negotiating with
a potential supplier).

Candidates submit their plan for negotiation.

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Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Details of the assessment

Task 4 Evaluating the project

Candidates use their knowledge, skills and evidence gathered during their enterprise project to analyse and evaluate
the project and make recommendations for improvements. Candidates must evaluate:
• the planning and implementation of the project (compulsory)
and one of the following:
• the financing of the project (optional)
• the marketing communications used (optional)
• the internal communication methods used (optional, only for candidates working in a group).

For Task 4, candidates submit a formal written report of approximately 1500 words. Candidates do not need to
evaluate their own performance for this task. The enterprise does not need to succeed.

Details of the coursework

Task 1 Choosing a suitable project
Candidates produce a formal written report showing consideration of two or three ideas for possible projects and
give a detailed explanation for their choice of project.

Candidates should produce the report before they begin their chosen enterprise project.

In the report, candidates:

• outline and analyse advantages and disadvantages of each idea
• collect, present and analyse appropriate data (e.g. market research or SWOT) for each possible idea
• give a detailed explanation of the reasons for the choice of project and a justified decision, including why other
idea(s) were rejected
• write in a formal report style, with headings, subheadings, charts, tables and, where appropriate, clear links to
appendices.

This task has an approximate word count of 1200 words (excluding tables, diagrams and appendices). The word
count gives candidates the flexibility to explore two or three options and give an explanation of their final project
choice. A word count is suggested to encourage depth of analysis rather than breadth.

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 Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Details of the assessment

Assessment criteria for Task 1

Level Description Mark
3 Good analysis and evaluation of two or three project options, using their 8–10
knowledge of enterprise concepts and terminology
Well-structured report, including appropriate charts, headings and subheadings
Report uses devices such as clear references to data gathered and appendices
where appropriate
2 Some analysis and evaluation of two or three project options using their 5–7
knowledge of enterprise concepts and terminology
Structured report, including charts, headings and subheadings
Some links to data gathered and appendices where appropriate
1 Limited attempt to identify, analyse and evaluate project options using their 1–4
knowledge of enterprise concepts and terminology
Basic attempt at a structured report, with very limited use of charts, headings and
subheadings
Very few links to data gathered and appendices
0 No creditable response 0

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Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Details of the assessment

Task 2 Planning the project

Task 2a Planning to manage potential problems or issues in the action plan
Candidates are required to produce an action plan. Candidates should produce the action plan before they begin
their chosen enterprise project.

Each individual candidate will use the action plan to identify key activities within the enterprise project that they
can write about in Task 2a.

For this task, each individual candidate should identify two or three significant activities from the action plan for
their enterprise project. For each activity, candidates should identify potential problems or issues and describe how
the candidate plans to manage each problem or issue.

Each individual candidate submits a written analysis of potential problems/issues and how they intend to manage
them.

Candidates who work in a group may agree an action plan together but the significant activities they identify must
be the candidate’s own individual choices. All candidates must submit their action plan for reference but the plan
will not be assessed.

Assessment criteria for Task 2a

Level Description Mark
3 Good analysis of potential issues or problems and how they plan to manage them 8–10
Good application of enterprise skills to the planning of a project or activity
Explanations show good knowledge of relevant enterprise concepts and
terminology
2 Some analysis of potential issues or problems and how they plan to manage them 5–7
Some application of enterprise skills to the planning of a project or activity
Explanations show knowledge of relevant enterprise concepts and terminology
1 Limited analysis of potential issues or problems and how they plan to manage 1–4
them
Limited application of enterprise skills to the planning of a project or activity
Explanations show limited knowledge of enterprise concepts and terminology
0 No creditable response 0

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 Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Details of the assessment

Task 2b Planning for financing the project OR planning marketing communications

Candidates provide written evidence of planning for either financing the project or marketing communications.
Candidates give a presentation of their proposals for their chosen option, demonstrating their communication and
enterprise skills. The presentation can be up to five minutes long.

Planning for financing the project

Each candidate researches three or four appropriate sources of finance for the project. Candidates give a presentation
on their proposals, with reasons for their choices. In the presentation the candidate should refer to the purpose of
the finance, the amount needed and cost of the finance.

Candidates submit:
• written evidence of the sources of finance the candidate considered for the different financial needs of the
project or activity, their decision on which source(s) to use, and an explanation of why they believe that these
are the best sources
• a witness statement for the presentation commenting on the candidate’s communication and enterprise skills.
This is completed by the teacher or businessperson who watches the presentation. Candidates may submit
documents used in the presentation in an appendix.

It is acknowledged that candidates working in a group may create a budget together. Individual or group budgets
may be submitted as an appendix for reference. These will not be assessed.

Planning marketing communications

Each candidate researches three or four appropriate types of marketing communications for the enterprise project.
Candidates give a presentation on their proposals, with reasons for their choices. In the presentation the candidate
should refer to reaching the potential market and attracting customers.

Candidates submit:
• written evidence of the types of marketing communications the candidate considered, their decision on which
method(s) to use, and an explanation of why they believe that their chosen method(s) will be successful
• a witness statement for the presentation commenting on the candidate’s communication and enterprise skills.
This is completed by the teacher or businessperson who watches the presentation. Candidates may submit
documents used in the presentation in an appendix.

It is acknowledged that candidates working in a group may create examples of marketing communications
together. Individual or group examples of marketing communications may be submitted as an appendix for
reference. These will not be assessed.

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Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Details of the assessment

Assessment criteria for Task 2b

Level Description Mark
3 Good analysis and evaluation of appropriate options before making decisions 9–12
Good application of enterprise skills to their proposals for finance or marketing
communications
Communication is very suitable for the audience and purpose
Demonstrates good knowledge of relevant enterprise concepts and terminology
2 Some analysis and evaluation of possible options before making decisions 5–8
Some application of enterprise skills to their proposals for finance or marketing
communications
Communication is suitable for the audience or purpose
Demonstrates knowledge of relevant enterprise concepts and terminology
1 Limited analysis of information relating to possible options. Evaluation may be 1–4
limited or absent
Limited application of enterprise skills to their proposals for finance or marketing
communications
Communication is of limited suitability for the audience or purpose
Limited knowledge of enterprise concepts and terminology
0 No creditable response 0

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 Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Details of the assessment

Task 3 Using enterprise skills to implement the plan

Candidates carry out their project and identify five of their own enterprise skills from Section 3.1 of the subject
content used during the project. One skill must be negotiation. Candidates explain how they used these skills in
their enterprise project.

Candidates must also plan and conduct a negotiation with someone outside the project team to secure support for
an aspect of the enterprise project.

Candidates must submit:

• a written record of how the individual candidate used five named enterprise skills to implement their enterprise
project. The candidate must only write about their own skills
• their individual plan for a negotiation. This plan must include details of:
– the people involved in the negotiation
– the situation of the negotiation
– benefits and weaknesses of the candidate’s proposal
– outcomes of the negotiation.

Assessment criteria for Task 3

Level Description Mark
3 Good ability to show how the candidate applied named enterprise skills, including 6–8
negotiation, when implementing a plan, supported by clear examples from the
project
2 Some ability to show how the candidate applied named enterprise skills, including 4–5
negotiation, when implementing a plan, supported by clear examples from the
project
1 Limited ability to show how the candidate applied named enterprise skills, 1–3
including negotiation, when implementing a plan, supported by clear examples
from the project
0 No creditable response 0

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Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Details of the assessment

Task 4 Evaluating the project

Candidates analyse and evaluate their project and make recommendations for improvements in a formal written
report. Candidates must analyse and evaluate the project, including:
• the planning and implementation of the project (compulsory):
– areas for analysis and evaluation could include the methods used to plan the project, analysis of any
deviations from the plan and evaluation of how well the plan was implemented
and one of the following:
• the financing of the project (optional):
– areas for analysis and evaluation could include the suitability of the sources of finance used, the way
income and expenditure were managed and monitored and the extent to which the enterprise project
achieved its financial aims
• the marketing communications used (optional):
– areas for analysis and evaluation could include the suitability of marketing communications used in terms
of cost, appropriateness for the candidate’s enterprise project and how well the methods used helped to
attract potential customers
• the internal communications used (optional, only for candidates working in a group):
– areas for analysis and evaluation could include the suitability of the channels used and the flow, speed and
accuracy of communication achieved.

Candidates should focus on the how well their plans were implemented, not evaluate their own performance.

In the report, candidates:

• analyse and evaluate positive and negative outcomes for each chosen area
• explain differences between predictions made in planning and actual events
• use evidence gathered during the project to support the points made
• give clear and reasoned recommendations for improvement for each area
• write in a formal report style with headings and subheadings where appropriate.

This task has an approximate word count of 1500 words (excluding tables, diagrams and appendices). The world
count gives candidates the flexibility to explore the positive and negative outcomes of two areas. A word count is
suggested to encourage depth of analysis rather than breadth.

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 Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Details of the assessment

Assessment criteria for Task 4

Level Description Mark
5 Very good analysis of both areas, covering positive and negative outcomes for 17–20
each area, clearly supported by evidence in a formal report style
Very good evaluation and conclusions, clearly supported by evidence
Justified recommendations for improvements for both areas, clearly showing how
they would improve their enterprise project
4 Good analysis of both areas, covering positive and negative outcomes for each 13–16
area, supported by evidence in a formal report style
Good evaluation and conclusions, supported by evidence
Recommendations for improvements for both areas are offered
3 Some analysis of both areas, generally supported by evidence in a formal report 9–12
style
Some evaluation and/or conclusions made, generally supported by evidence
Recommendations for improvements for at least one area are offered
2 Limited analysis of at least one area is offered, but this will often be descriptive. 5–8
Formal report layout may not be used
Limited evaluation and/or conclusions made, which may or may not be supported
by evidence
Recommendations for improvements are offered, but these may not be linked to
the specified areas
1 Very limited, if any, analysis offered of one area, but this will often be descriptive. 1–4
Formal report layout may not be used
Very limited evaluation or conclusion made
Recommendations for improvements may not be offered
0 No creditable response 0

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Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Details of the assessment

Checklist of evidence
Task Candidates must submit: Included –
tick []
Task 1 Formal written report on identifying an appropriate project (approximately [ ]
1200 words)
Task 2a Identification of potential problems and solutions for two or three activities [ ]
Action plan (for reference) [ ]
Task 2b Planning for financing the project
Written evidence of the sources of finance the candidate considered [ ]
Presentation witness statement [ ]
OR
Planning marketing communications
Written evidence of the types of marketing communications the candidate [ ]
considered
Presentation witness statement [ ]
Task 3 Written description of using five enterprise skills (from Section 3.1 of subject [ ]
content) [ ]
Plan for negotiation
Task 4 Formal written report evaluating the project (approximately 1500 words)
including:
• the planning and implementation of the project [ ]
[ ]
and one of the following:
• the financing of the project
• the marketing communication used
• the internal communications used.

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 Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Details of the assessment

Guidance for centres on coursework

Cover sheets
You should submit a cover sheet completed for each candidate, attached to the front of their work. Include the
cover sheets with the sample materials you send to Cambridge International. Download the cover sheet from the
samples database at www.cambridgeinternational.org/samples. The database will ask you for your country/
territory and the syllabus code (i.e. 0454), after which it will take you to the correct form. Follow the instructions
on the form itself to complete it.

Recording and submitting candidates’ marks and work

Please refer to the samples database at www.cambridgeinternational.org/samples for information, dates and
methods of submission of candidates’ marks and work.

You should record candidates’ marks for Component 2 on the Individual Candidate Record Card and the
Coursework Assessment Summary Form which you should download each year from the samples database at
www.cambridgeinternational.org/samples. The database will ask you for your country/territory and the syllabus
code (i.e. 0454), after which it will take you to the correct forms. Follow the instructions on the form to complete it.

The marks on these forms must be identical to the marks you submit to Cambridge International.

Internal moderation
If more than one teacher in your centre is marking internal assessments, you must make arrangements to moderate
or standardise your teachers’ marking so that all candidates are assessed to a common standard. (If only one
teacher is marking internal assessments, no internal moderation is necessary.) You can find further information on
the process of internal moderation on the samples database at www.cambridgeinternational.org/samples

You should record the internally moderated marks for all candidates on the Coursework Assessment Summary
Form and submit these marks to Cambridge International according to the instructions set out in the Cambridge
Handbook for the relevant year of assessment.

External moderation
Cambridge International will externally moderate all internally assessed components.

• You must submit the marks of all candidates to Cambridge International.

• You must also submit the marked work of a sample of candidates to Cambridge International.

The sample you submit to Cambridge International should ideally include examples of the marking of each teacher.
The samples database at www.cambridgeinternational.org/samples explains how the sample will be selected

The samples database at www.cambridgeinternational.org/samples also provides details of how to submit the
marks and work.

External moderators will produce a short report for each centre with feedback on your marking and administration
of the assessment.

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Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Details of the assessment

Guidance on using levels-based mark schemes

Marking of work should be positive, rewarding achievement where possible, but clearly differentiating across the
whole range of marks, where appropriate.

The marker should look at the work and then make a judgement about which level statement is the best fit. In
practice, work does not always match one level statement precisely so a judgement may need to be made between
two or more level statements.

Once a best-fit level statement has been identified, use the following guidance to decide on a specific mark:
• If the candidate’s work convincingly meets the level statement, award the highest mark.
• If the candidate’s work adequately meets the level statement, award the most appropriate mark in the middle
of the range (where middle marks are available).
• If the candidate’s work just meets the level statement, award the lowest mark.

Supervising coursework
A general discussion on the progress of coursework is a natural part of the teacher–candidate relationship, as it
is for other parts of the course. If plans and first drafts are completed under teacher supervision, you can be sure
of the authenticity of the final coursework. Candidates can draft and redraft work, but you should only give brief
summative comments on progress during this drafting phase.

Coursework must be a candidate’s own, unaided work. (Unless there is subject-specific guidance that says
otherwise, you can support candidates by reviewing their work before it is handed in for final assessment. You can
do this orally or through written feedback. Your advice should be kept at a general level so that the candidate leads
the discussion and makes the suggestions for any amendments. You must not give detailed advice to individual
candidates or groups of candidates on how their work can be improved to meet the assessment criteria.) You
should not correct or edit draft coursework.

For further information about supervising coursework, see the Cambridge Handbook for the relevant year of
assessment at www.cambridgeinternational.org/eoguide

Authenticity
It is the centre’s responsibility to make sure all assessed work is the candidate’s original work. Candidates must not
submit someone else’s work as their own, or use material produced by someone else without citing and referencing
it properly. You should make candidates aware of the academic conventions governing quotation and reference to
the work of others, and teach candidates how to use them.

A candidate taking someone else’s work or ideas and passing them off as his or her own is an example of
plagiarism. It is your responsibility as a teacher to prevent plagiarism from happening and to detect it if it does
happen. For more information, search for ‘Preventing plagiarism – guidance for teachers’ on our website at
www.cambridgeinternational.org/teachingandassessment

At the time of submission, the candidate must sign a statement confirming that they are submitting their own
work. You countersign it to confirm that you believe the work is theirs. Centres should use the cover sheet on the
samples database for this purpose, and it must appear on or before the title page of the document.

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 Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  Details of the assessment

Command words
Command words and their meanings help candidates know what is expected from them in the exams. The table
below includes command words used in the assessment for this syllabus. The use of the command word will relate
to the subject context.

Command word What it means

Analyse examine in detail to show meaning, identify elements and the relationship between them
Define give precise meaning
Describe state the points of a topic/give characteristics and main features
Discuss write about issue(s) or topic(s) in depth in a structured way
Evaluate judge or calculate the quality, importance, amount, or value of something
Explain set out purposes or reasons/make the relationships between things evident/provide why
and/or how and support with relevant evidence
Identify name/select/recognise
Justify support a case with evidence/argument
Prepare present information in a suitable format
State express in clear terms

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Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.

5  What else you need to know

This section is an overview of other information you need to know about this syllabus. It will help to share the
administrative information with your exams officer so they know when you will need their support. Find more
information about our administrative processes at www.cambridgeinternational.org/eoguide

Before you start

Previous study
We do not expect learners starting this course to have previously studied enterprise.

Guided learning hours

We design Cambridge IGCSE syllabuses based on learners having about 130 guided learning hours for each subject
during the course but this is for guidance only. The number of hours a learner needs to achieve the qualification
may vary according to local practice and their previous experience of the subject.

Availability and timetables

All Cambridge schools are allocated to one of six administrative zones. Each zone has a specific timetable.

You can view the timetable for your administrative zone at www.cambridgeinternational.org/timetables

You can enter candidates in the June and November exam series.

Check you are using the syllabus for the year the candidate is taking the exam.

Private candidates can enter for this syllabus. Some components are not available to private candidates. For more
information, please refer to the Cambridge Guide to Making Entries.

Combining with other syllabuses

Candidates can take this syllabus alongside other Cambridge International syllabuses in a single exam series. The
only exceptions are:
• syllabuses with the same title at the same level.

Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge IGCSE (9–1) and Cambridge O Level syllabuses are at the same level.

Group awards: Cambridge ICE

Cambridge ICE (International Certificate of Education) is a group award for Cambridge IGCSE. It allows schools to
offer a broad and balanced curriculum by recognising the achievements of learners who pass exams in a range of
different subjects.

Learn more about Cambridge ICE at www.cambridgeinternational.org/cambridgeice

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 Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  What else you need to know

Making entries
Exams officers are responsible for submitting entries to Cambridge International. We encourage them to work
closely with you to make sure they enter the right number of candidates for the right combination of syllabus
components. Entry option codes and instructions for submitting entries are in the Cambridge Guide to Making
Entries. Your exams officer has a copy of this guide.

Exam administration
To keep our exams secure, we produce question papers for different areas of the world, known as administrative
zones. We allocate all Cambridge schools to one administrative zone determined by their location. Each zone has
a specific timetable. Some of our syllabuses offer candidates different assessment options. An entry option code
is used to identify the components the candidate will take relevant to the administrative zone and the available
assessment options.

Support for exams officers

We know how important exams officers are to the successful running of exams. We provide them with the support
they need to make your entries on time. Your exams officer will find this support, and guidance for all other phases
of the Cambridge Exams Cycle, at www.cambridgeinternational.org/eoguide

Estimated entries
Estimated entries may be required for some Cambridge International syllabuses. To confirm if estimated entries are
required for this syllabus, and for further information about making estimated entries, see the Cambridge Handbook
for the relevant year of assessment at www.cambridgeinternational.org/eoguide

Retakes and carrying forward marks

Candidates can retake the whole qualification as many times as they want to. Information on retake entries is at
www.cambridgeinternational.org/entries

Candidates cannot resubmit, in whole or in part, coursework from a previous series. To confirm if an option is
available to carry forward marks for this syllabus, refer to the Cambridge Guide to Making Entries for the relevant
series. Regulations for carrying forward internally assessed marks can be found in the Cambridge Handbook for the
relevant year at www.cambridgeinternational.org/eoguide

Equality and inclusion

We have taken great care to avoid bias of any kind in the preparation of this syllabus and related assessment
materials. In our effort to comply with the UK Equality Act (2010) we have taken all reasonable steps to avoid any
direct and indirect discrimination.

The standard assessment arrangements may present barriers for candidates with impairments. Where a candidate
is eligible, we may be able to make arrangements to enable that candidate to access assessments and receive
recognition of their attainment. We do not agree access arrangements if they give candidates an unfair advantage
over others or if they compromise the standards being assessed.

Candidates who cannot access the assessment of any component may be able to receive an award based on the
parts of the assessment they have completed.

Information on access arrangements is in the Cambridge Handbook at www.cambridgeinternational.org/eoguide

Language
This syllabus and the related assessment materials are available in English only.

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Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  What else you need to know

After the exam

Grading and reporting
Grades A*, A, B, C, D, E, F or G indicate the standard a candidate achieved at Cambridge IGCSE.

A* is the highest and G is the lowest. ‘Ungraded’ means that the candidate’s performance did not meet the
standard required for grade G. ‘Ungraded’ is reported on the statement of results but not on the certificate.

In specific circumstances your candidates may see one of the following letters on their statement of results:
• Q (PENDING)
• X (NO RESULT).
These letters do not appear on the certificate.

On the statement of results and certificates, Cambridge IGCSE is shown as INTERNATIONAL GENERAL
CERTIFICATE OF SECONDARY EDUCATION (IGCSE).

How students and teachers can use the grades

Assessment at Cambridge IGCSE has two purposes:
• to measure learning and achievement
The assessment:
– confirms achievement and performance in relation to the knowledge, understanding and skills specified in
the syllabus, to the levels described in the grade descriptions.
• to show likely future success
The outcomes:
– help predict which students are well prepared for a particular course or career and/or which students are
more likely to be successful
– help students choose the most suitable course or career.

Grade descriptions
Grade descriptions are provided to give an indication of the standards of achievement candidates awarded
particular grades are likely to show. Weakness in one aspect of the examination may be balanced by a better
performance in some other aspect.

Grade descriptions for Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise will be published after the first assessment of the syllabus in
2020. Find more information at www.cambridgeinternational.org/0454

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 Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 syllabus for 2023.  What else you need to know

Changes to this syllabus for 2023

The syllabus has been updated. This is version 1, published September 2020.

You must read the whole syllabus before planning your teaching programme.

Changes to syllabus content • We have made some small changes to the wording in section 3
Subject content, for clarity.

Any textbooks endorsed to support the syllabus for examination from 2020 are still suitable for use
with this syllabus.

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‘While studying Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge International A Levels, students broaden their horizons
through a global perspective and develop a lasting passion for learning.’
Zhai Xiaoning, Deputy Principal, The High School Affiliated to Renmin University of China

Cambridge Assessment International Education

The Triangle Building, Shaftesbury Road, Cambridge, CB2 8EA, United Kingdom
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