Economics A Level

In the first year, students will study two themes: markets, consumers and firms and then the wider economic environment.

In the second year, two further themes are studied: making markets work and the global economy.

All four themes covered over the two-year course are assessed at the end of the second year by way of three externally assessed examinations, each two hours long.

To be accepted onto this Level 3 programme, you must hold at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above. This must include a grade 5 or above in Maths and English Language.

Studying economics will help you develop transferrable skills that will prepare you for studying at university or moving into the world of work; these include data interpretation and essay writing. Suitable Higher Education courses include economics degrees or degrees in applied economics such as environmental economics, labour economics, public sector economics or monetary economics.

You might decide on a more business-related path and choose to study business economics, international business, business and management or finance degrees. In terms of degrees, economics students can follow a wide range of careers in industry, commerce, finance and the civil service. You might choose a career in sales, banking, product management or general management

All of your lessons will be taught in classrooms that have been recently modernised and include interactive whiteboards. You will have access to computer rooms when required and laptops. We have a well-stocked library with a wide range of books and periodicals as well as extensive online resources.

Q: What other A Level subjects complement this subject?

A: History, Geography, Environmental Studies, Law, Government and Politics, and Sociology all fit well.



Q: How much extra work is involved?

A: You will be set homework on a regular basis which may be reading, research or a piece of written work to hand in for assessment. You will be expected to develop an interest in current events and have an opinion on the issues which affect our lives.



Q: How will I develop this knowledge?

A: You should watch a news bulletin every day, read a quality newspaper and watch relevant television programmes, e.g. The Apprentice or Dragons Den. You can also have a wider look at how the world of business affects your own interests, e.g. the business of football or fashion. You can think about the impact that goods and services you buy/consume have on the environment and the global economy, and the effects on other people’s lives. Practical examples can be gathered from a part-time job or by talking to your parents or relatives about their work and experiences.



Q: Is there lots of maths in the course?

A: As long as you are happy punching numbers on a calculator and can interpret line graphs, then no.



Q: Are any trips planned during the course?

A: Yes, if there is a good enough response we will visit Berlin.

Every full-time student at Petroc will have their own Study Programme which will include:

– Your academic or vocational qualification.

– Maths and English Language development – if you have not achieved GCSE grade 4 in either of these subjects.

– Work Experience – hours will vary depending on your qualification and course level.

– Tutor Support – to support your personal, academic and professional development.

– Sustainability – helping you to identify how you can improve the sustainability of your future employment sectors.

– Personal Development Awards – developing six key areas of personal and employability behaviours to prepare you for the working world.