The Economics and Business Studies department offers A levels in both subjects, with the former being the most popular sixth-form option.  The number of students who choose to continue on to a related degree illustrates how interesting and/or useful they find the work covered. 

It is often said that Economics tends to be more abstract and theoretical in its approach although we do try to provide as much real world context as possible.   Business Studies is perhaps more useful, especially for those students intending at some stage to set up their own business; the marketing, accounting and operations issues covered are relevant for all firms from sole traders to PLCs.

Economic models are used extensively to make sense of real world data, behaviour and events. The interaction of individuals (consumers and workers), firms and governments is examined, and recent economic history (from Thatcherism of the 1980s onwards) is reviewed. There is an increasing emphasis on the ‘global economy’ with time spent studying the economies of developing nations.

Business Studies, especially at A2, relies on students doing a considerable amount of research into the way businesses operate; whether it their approach to Corporate Social Responsibility or their reactions to the recession, students are expected to know about it.

Quantitative methods skills required for the study of A level Economics or Business Studies are not beyond GCSE Mathematics standards.

A vital source of information for both subjects is the department’s twitter feed @COLFESeconomics; here students are guided to resources specific to their syllabus and many contribute their own.

We also make use of external speakers, with several Old Colfeians regaling us with their experiences as employees of large firms or as entrepreneurs.