Economics
OVERVIEW
In A-level Economics, the course content is split into microeconomics and macroeconomics. In micro, we study: markets and market failure in L6th followed by business behaviour and labour markets in the second year. In macro, we study the UK economy in L6th and then look at global perspectives in year 2. Despite teaching the content as two halves, students learn how to use the information synoptically.
OUR SYLLABUS
When studying microeconomics, we focus on scarcity and choice; how competitive markets work; the price mechanism; competition and market power; labour markets; market failure and government intervention. This is all tested on Paper 1. In macroeconomics, we learn about: economic policy and indicators of macroeconomic performance; aggregate supply and demand; the application of policy instruments; the global context including exchange rates and trade; and the financial sector. This is all tested on Paper 2. Finally, Paper 3 is synoptic and requires students to apply all their knowledge and understanding to case studies.
WHY STUDY ECONOMICS?
When economics students watch the news, they get it! The concepts that we learn in A-level economics are around us every day and the course allows us to make sense of complicated decision-making. Topics that may have previously seemed quite abstract quickly become part of an economics student’s daily conversations.
Each year, we get involved in the Bristol Festival of Economics. We have done this by visiting the talks and we have also streamed content to our students in the school theatre.
The department has its own society for business and economics students in which we present and discuss topical issues. We also enter a local business education cup, which we have won for the last two years!
Economics uses lots of case studies, so our students regularly research and present on topics related to the course content. These help our students with time-management; public speaking; communication; and adaptability as they respond to questions from their peers.
Traditionally economics students have been attracted to jobs within banking and finance, however the breadth of topics make this A-level a gateway to many career paths and it is highly thought of by private businesses and the public sector alike.
