Economics

Economics is a dynamic and highly relevant social science, helping pupils to make sense of the ever-changing world around them.

At its simplest, economics analyses how individuals and societies choose to manage scarce resources; and studying economics at Sixth Form will equip pupils with the theoretical toolkit to help understand real-world economic issues such as taxation, inflation and global trade. The department strives for excellent academic results and to prepare pupils for life beyond school, whether in higher education or in the workplace. An emphasis is therefore placed on a blend of independent study, class discussions, group collaboration and presentations, with current affairs regularly integrated into lessons to develop real-world applications.

A LEVEL ECONOMICS

Entry requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE English & Maths or equivalent.

Exam board: Edexcel

Economics is a widely accepted and well-respected subject by universities and
employers. Potential careers for those with Economics degrees include: Accountancy, Actuary, Civil
Service, Consulting, Economist, Financial Analyst, Investment Analyst, Journalist,
Statistician.

Syllabus:

Theme 1 – Introduction to markets and market failure
Theme 2 – The UK economy – policies and performance
Theme 3 – Business behaviour and the labour market
Theme 4 – A global perspective

Assessment:

Three two-hour papers, which comprise multiple choice, data response and extended open-response questions.

Further information:

It is not essential to study Maths A level alongside Economics, but many Economics courses at university require Maths A level and a small number of university courses (such as Oxbridge and LSE) strongly prefer candidates with Further Maths A level. University courses that are economics-related or dual honours are usually open to non-mathematicians.

The more competitive universities may see a combination of Business Studies and Economics as too narrow. If you are thinking of choosing both these courses, please contact Mr Chart-Boyles at [email protected]

IB ECONOMICS

Entry requirements: Grade 6 in GCSE English & Maths or equivalent.

Economics is a widely accepted and well-respected subject by universities and employers.

According to Prospects UK (http://www.prospects.ac.uk/options_economics.htm): “A degree in Economics provides you with a wide array of both subject-specific and transferable skills, all of which are highly sought after by employers.”

Potential careers for those with Economics degrees include: Accountancy, Actuary, Civil Service, Consulting, Economist, Financial Analyst, Investment Analyst, Journalist, Statistician.

The syllabus consists of four sections.

  • Intro to Economics
  • Microeconomics
  • Macroeconomics
  • Global Economics

Assessment:

Two papers for SL and three papers for HL Pupils, comprising data response and extended open-response questions. Three Internal Assessments (coursework) make up 20% of the total marks for the exam (HL) and 30% for SL.

ACTIVITIES AND SOCIETIES

To help develop pupils’ interest, enjoyment and understanding of this dynamic and relevant subject, the Economics Society organises events throughout the year. It takes a variety of formats – outside speakers, lectures and social events.

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