A Level Economics Course
A level Economics students at Ashbourne examine real-world situations and develop a theoretical understanding of how better decisions can be made by themselves, society and government.
A level Economics students at Ashbourne examine real-world situations and develop a theoretical understanding of how better decisions can be made by themselves, society and government.
Studying Economics will help you understand why prices fluctuate, where your taxes go, how government legislation can push people to change their spending habits (or not), why some companies dominate their market, how global or societal changes like climate change and ageing can have an impact on a country’s economy, why people fight for resources and why certain economies grow faster than others.
I thoroughly enjoyed my time studying Economics at Ashbourne and believe it has shaped me to progress into the next stage of my life.
Zack, International Management, Warwick University
You will also learn how to analyse complex issues, create strategies, monitor the political climate, understand commercial incentives, problem-solve, interpret statistics and data, explain your ideas clearly and adapt quickly to changing circumstances – all highly desirable and transferable skills.
Keeping up-to-date with current affairs is essential for Economics and we expect students to read newspapers and magazines such as the Economist and watch programmes such as Newsnight as often as they can. Students must learn to articulate their ideas and distinguish between facts, bias and opinion. We also teach them how to put forward persuasive arguments and examine economic issues from multiple perspectives.
Economics is an intellectually challenging subject that universities hold in high regard. The study of economics facilitates a wide range of careers across multiple sectors. Private firms such as investment banks, public sector organisations (HMRC, Bank of England, FCA and the Civil Service) and charities all recruit economists.
The Ashbourne Finance Programme (AFP) is designed to give students the best possible chance of getting onto competitive finance, business or economics related degree courses at a top UK university. Students follow the Programme alongside their A level studies and receive expert university application guidance, attend lectures in economics and finance, participate in simulated investment challenges and visit major financial institutions in the city.
Ashbourne’s exceptionally motivated teachers give you every opportunity to perform well. The finance programme helped me decide whether it was something I wished to pursue. These combined allowed me to fully develop my exam skills and grasp the material well, thus allowing me to reach a top grade.
Ariane, Economics A*, English Literature A*, Psychology A*
With your excellent understanding of how economics affects your own finances, influences business success, shapes government policy and drive global markets you should be well-suited for a degree in Economics-related courses like International Relations, Law, Business, Economics or Maths. Then you could go for high flying jobs in the government forging economic policy, work at the World Bank, make predictions for economic thinktanks, shake up the stock market or attempt to regulate the finance industry. Alternatively, you may plan to set up your own business, get involved in the law, become a journalist, offer advice to non-profit organisations or become a crusader for global trade justice.
1. Which exam board does Ashbourne use for A-level Economics?
We follow the Edexcel specification for both AS and A-level Economics. Students study microeconomics, macroeconomics, business behaviour, and global issues.
2. What topics are covered in A-level Economics?
The course covers demand and supply, market failure, the UK economy, business behaviour, labour markets, and global trade. Students explore both microeconomic and macroeconomic perspectives and sit three exams at A-level.
3. What university courses can A-level Economics lead to?
A-level Economics is excellent preparation for degrees in Economics, Business, Finance, Politics, International Relations, and Management. It also supports applications for broader subjects such as Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE).
4. What skills will I gain from studying A-level Economics?
Students learn to analyse complex issues, interpret data, evaluate government policies, and present persuasive arguments. These transferable skills are highly valued by universities and employers.