Level 1 Business & Retail

Ready to take your first step into the world of business and retail?

The Gateway Level 1 Certificate in Business & Retail is designed for young people who want to develop the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to succeed in today’s workplace. Whether you’re interested in retail, customer service, marketing, sales, entrepreneurship or running your own business in the future, this qualification provides a strong foundation to help you move forward.

You’ll explore how businesses operate, learn about working with customers, develop teamwork and communication skills, and gain an understanding of the fast-paced retail sector. Along the way, you’ll build valuable employability skills that employers are looking for, including problem-solving, organisation, professionalism and confidence.

Studying in Liverpool means you’ll be learning in a city with a thriving business community, world-class retail destinations, growing digital and creative industries, and exciting opportunities across hospitality, tourism and customer-focused sectors. From independent businesses and local entrepreneurs to major retail brands, Liverpool offers a wide range of career pathways for ambitious young people.

This qualification can help you progress to further study, apprenticeships or entry-level employment, giving you the skills and experience to take your next step with confidence.

Your future starts here – build the skills, discover your potential and explore the opportunities waiting for you in Liverpool and beyond.

Which sector does this qualification support?

This qualification could lead to an entry-level role in business and administration, such as administrative assistant, customer service agent, clerk. It could also lead to entry-level roles in retail,  such as a sales/retail assistant, stockroom/replenishment assistant, cashier/checkout operator and merchandise assistant.

What are the progression options?

Learners can progress to a Level 2 certificate or diploma in Business, Other progression routes include Level 2 qualifications in Office Administration, Customer Service, Medical Administration and Contact Centre Operations.

Did you know?

Retail in the Liverpool City Region (LCR) is a thriving service sector and adds to a massive £6.2 billion visitor economy. The region benefits from independent and big retail outlets in the heart of the city. 
 
Key Retail Destinations:
  • Liverpool ONE: A vast, open-air retail and entertainment complex in the city centre featuring over 170 stores, including major flagship brands like John Lewis, BOSS, and Zara. 
  • MetQuarter & Cavern Walks: Known for housing premium boutiques and iconic independent fashion stores.
  • Independent Hubs: Vibrant, bohemian shopping scenes are concentrated along Bold Street, Lark Lane, and the Red Brick Vintage market

Professional and business services (PBS) are the biggest economic driver in the Liverpool City Region, employing tens of thousands of people.The PBS sector provides support to other growing regional sectors like life sciences, advanced manufacturing, and the creative industries. 

  • Key Subsectors: Wealth management, financial services, legal and insurance activities, employment agencies, technical consultancy, and maritime-focused business support. 
Prominent Employers
The region hosts a mix of major national firms and established regional companies. Notable employers include:
  • Financial & Investment: Rathbones, Barclays Wealth, Santander, Investec, MAM Funds, and Shore Capital.
  • Legal & Professional Advisory: Hill Dickinson, KPMG, and Keppie Massie.
  • Engineering & Environmental: ARUP and Mott MacDonald.

Still interested?

To register your interest in this course, please complete an online application form and we will be in touch!

Apply Now
 
The featured image is copyright © of Liverpool City Region Combined Authority