Economics

Subject intent

Studying Economics will help students to be leaders in their chosen field by developing engagement with the wider world and being able to think critically about the impact of government policy and business objectives on society and all the key economic agents. It takes students out of their comfort zone by viewing the world completely differently, with the world fixated on money and profit, economics allows students to think deeply about the pursuits and trade-offs of these goals. 

In microeconomics, you will delve into the study of individuals and firms, gaining insights into how they make critical decisions about production, consumption, and pricing. Why do train companies implement high peak-time prices? Who should be accountable for the environmental damage caused by pollution? Should there be a pay disparity between cleaners and doctors, and what justifies this? These questions will spark your curiosity and empower you to understand and challenge the economic principles that shape our society.

Macroeconomics will broaden your perspective, helping you analyse the larger economic forces at play. You will decipher the meanings and implications of terms like recession, austerity, and inflation. Should governments prioritize national wealth or the happiness of their citizens? How can we effectively address deep-rooted poverty and unemployment? These inquiries will equip you with the knowledge to interpret economic news and contribute to informed discussions on societal well-being.

Throughout this course, you will discover connections with other disciplines: leveraging scientific methods for data analysis and applying mathematical skills to interpret graphs and equations. While economics involves mathematical rigor, your ability to explain and analyse complex ideas in clear, written English is equally essential. The course also incorporates philosophical and ethical dimensions, prompting debates on whether happiness outweighs wealth in measuring economic growth. You will draw on a broad spectrum of knowledge, considering factors like climate change, population growth, and technological advancements to fully understand issues like fluctuating food prices. This helps students develop independent thinking about the world around them.

Our aim at HSAEL is to equip you with the analytical tools and critical thinking skills necessary to drive social change. By understanding and challenging existing economic structures, you will be prepared to tackle inequality, promote sustainability, and be the leaders of a fairer and more just world.

Subject links to HSAEL values

Every student will be a leader in their chosen field, with many choosing to be leaders in STEM. At HSAEL, we believe in leadership with GRACE. We enact this mission by developing growth, fostering a sense of responsibility, promoting ambition, encouraging compassion, and cultivating excellence.

How does the study of Economics link to future careers?

Economics hones critical thinking and quantitative analysis, essential for roles such as financial analysts, data scientists and policy advisors both in the private and public sector.  The discipline teaches how to approach complex problems systematically, a valuable skill in management, consulting and strategic planning.

Career opportunities:  Finance and Banking, Government and Public Policy, Data Science and Analytics, Academia and Research, Journalism and Media, Legal and Regulatory

How does Subject link to the extra-curricular provision at HSAEL? Trips, enrichment, clubs, CED day

Economics link to debating clubs, maths Clubs and student government. 

Trips to places such as Bank of England and London Stock Exchange (LSE)