ECONOMICS

A LEVEL

Economics is the study of us, and every choice we make.

The global human population has grown rapidly to 7.9 billion, and yet the world has scarce resources (land, water, food etc). What should we produce and how should these goods and services be distributed? Economics is the study of how individuals and groups make decisions using their limited resources to best satisfy their wants, needs and desires.

In Economics you will study issues which are at the heart of our wealth and wellbeing today; these range from wealth inequality to the impact of globalization, the impacts of climate change to unemployment and inflation. You will explore markets, demand and supply, growth, profits, cost, and how every aspect of Economics influences our lives from the price of a product to employment to the policies we live by every day.

Studying Economics develops skills that employers consistently find valuable: communications, writing, and analysis; as well as important skills like numeracy and business acumen. Economics is relevant to the real world and is well regarded as a strong academic subject by universities and employers.

Many students go on to study Economics at University. Sometimes along with other subjects such as Philosophy, Politics, Finance or Management. Economists are highly sought after in the job market because of their decision making skills and, on average, earn far more than other graduates. Expect to work in Banking, Finance, Civil Service, Local Government, Charities, International Development, Management, Journalism and Teaching.

LESSON TIME!

Our desires are unlimited but resources are scarce. How do we allocate those resources to desires delivering the best possible outcomes?

That’s the greatest challenge to both individuals, businesses, and the government.

If I’ve only got one factory, what do I make? What’s the best allocation of my resources?
I’m a Xaverian student. How do I choose between the enrichment activities taking place across campus every month?

Maths plays a big part in Economics. Today you’re going to take a good, hard look at the production possibility curve which helps us figure out the best use of a resource.

Why choose Dominos over Nando’s? How do you choose to invest in fighting one disease over another? And how many fish and coconuts can be collected by desert island dweller Tom in a single day?

We hope you enjoy your lesson!

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CAREERS

People who have studied Economics are in demand are as they are particularly well-prepared for jobs in banking and the financial sector, such as in accountancy firms.

The well-developed methodologies used in the economics profession have helped the subject expand into providing tools for other disciplines, such as politics, law, health, education, management, and many others.

COURSES

A-Level Economics students often study A-Level Politics, Maths, Further Maths, Business and Geography.

Many students go on to study Economics at University. Sometimes along with other subjects such as Philosophy, Politics, Finance or Management.

Pre-U courses:

Choose this A-level and during your second year at Xaverian you could be chosen to take advantage of an eight-week crash course in undergraduate life through our close ties with Manchester University.

Weekly two-hour sessions during your autumn term focus on some of the most important study skills for your university success – including critical thinking, oral communication, essay writing and interpreting complex information.

You’ll learn through methods familiar to higher education students – including lectures, reading tasks and interactive group discussion.

Take part in the Pre-U course and you’ll also receive a one A-level grade reduction in the standard entry requirements if you apply to Manchester University.

Component 1:

Introduction to markets and market failure

Component 2:

The UK economy – performance & policies

Component 3:

Business behaviour & the labour market

Component 4:

A global perspective

Entry requirements:

Six good passes at GCSE including two at grade 6 or above

Course specific entry requirements:

Grade 6 from Maths, 5 from English

Course duration:

2 years

Assessment methods:

3 final exams

Course type:

Linear A-level

Exam board:

OCR

Economics at Xaverian has a strong reputation. Lessons will be varied and will include plenty of discussions, group work, presentations and independent study as well as teacher-led class lessons. A minimum of 20% of the overall assessment marks are targeted at the assessment of quantitative skills across the A-level, so a proficiency in mathematics is an essential.

INTERESTED IN APPLYING?

I had a natural interest in economics and the way I was taught by my teacher made me love the subject even more. I have also proved to myself that I am good enough to apply to top universities based on what I have achieved with my A Levels. The tutorials will also help me in the future by teaching me life skills that I can apply to the real world.