Economics
If you have any further enquiries, please email Miss Saffron Owen, Head of Economics and Business Studies, at sowen@salesiancollege.com
Why study Economics?
Economics is an extremely popular subject. It is useful for a wide variety of university courses and, of course, for the world of work. It is concerned with day-to-day issues affecting us all and students, therefore can relate to the concepts covered.
ECONOMICS AT A LEVEL
In Economics, the overview of the economy is seen as the most central subject with analysis of its constituent parts, producers, consumers and financial institutions seen as areas for study within it. The approach to Economics is to apply economic theory to support analysis of current economic problems and issues, encouraging students to appreciate the interrelationships between microeconomics and macroeconomics. Microeconomics looks at the individual markets in depth (e.g. the labour, leisure or housing market), whereas macroeconomics focusses on the economy of the nation, the EU and how the government might try to manage it.
Why at Salesian College?
Salesian College offers excellent facilities in which to study Economics. The students learn in an extremely hospitable environment. Students are challenged both in and outside of the classroom. Activities include national competitions based on share-trading as well as the prestigious Bank of England Interest Rate Challenge. Visits include a tour of the Bank of England, a tour of Canary Wharf and The City of London and New York - to understand how the economy works in a different country. External speakers are used to link the subject matter to future career aspirations of the students and the teachers have an abundance of knowledge and expertise, gained from previous work experience.
What does the Economics course involve?
Economics follows the AQA syllabus and is examined via three papers at the end of Year 13:
- Individuals, firms, markets and market failure
- The national and international economy
- Synoptic economics which covers both macroeconomics and microeconomics
Assessment: Paper 1 = 33.3%
Assessment: Paper 2 = 33.3%
Assessment: Paper 3 = 33.3%
Skills required
As a student of Economics you will need to be interested in the economy and current affairs and researching into current issues yourself. A student should have an ability in Mathematics and calculation work in particular is needed. An ability to write in clear English is also required. The understanding of concepts, terminology and theory are the key to success.
What the Economics Department offers in teaching and resources
All students learn in a well-resourced centre, with an extensive reference library in the department. Throughout the course, material is examined from textbooks, case studies, magazines and quality newspapers. Current affairs programmes are also important as well as up-to-date documentaries following topical issues.
What is expected from Economics students?
You will be expected to have a keen interest in the economy and what is going on in the world by reading and watching current events. Ultimately, you must apply your knowledge outside of the classroom environment each and every day to get the most from the course. You will be expected to be proactive with work and complete it on time.
What can an A Level in Economics lead to?
Many students go to university to follow courses in Economics or Business related subjects, for example, Accountancy, Economics, Government, Banking, Insurance, Finance, Operations Management, Actuarial Studies, Management Accounting, Marketing, Personnel and Recruitment.