Economics

Intent

Please note economics is currently no longer offered as part of our KS4 curriculum. The last Year 10 cohort was in September 2024

The Economics curriculum is designed to develop students’ understanding of both microeconomic and macroeconomic principles, as well as their application to real-world contexts. Across Years 12–13, students progress from foundational concepts to advanced analysis, including global and development economics, preparing them for higher education and informed citizenship. 

Key aims across the stages: 

• Year 12 (KS5/IB SL/HL): Explore in-depth microeconomic and macroeconomic theory. Introduce quantitative analysis, market failures, government interventions, and behavioural economics. Emphasize independent research and application through Internal Assessments (IA1 and IA2). 
• Year 13 (KS5/ IBDP): Examine international trade, protectionism, and development economics. Encourage critical evaluation of policies and strategies for global economic development. Prepare students for final assessments and real-world application of economic theory. 

Implementation

The curriculum employs a structured progression of topics with a balance of theoretical, quantitative, and applied learning. 

Key approaches: 

• Conceptual development through lecture, discussion, and modelling of economic scenarios 
• Case studies, real-world examples, and media-based analysis 
• Quantitative exercises to develop data interpretation and graphical analysis skills 
• Internal Assessments (IA1–IA3) requiring independent research and application of theory to contemporary issues 
• Formative assessments including mocks and reviews to consolidate learning 
• Differentiated instruction for Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL) students 

By stage: 

• Year 12 (KS5/IB SL/HL): Advanced micro and macro models, quantitative analysis, market failure, behavioural economics, and macro policy. Development of research and writing skills via Internal Assessments. 
• Year 13 (KS5 IBDP): Application of knowledge to international trade, protectionism, and development economics. Focus on critical thinking, evaluation of policies, and synthesis of micro- and macroeconomic perspectives. 
•  

Impact 

The Economics curriculum ensures that students: 

• Develop analytical and critical thinking skills: Ability to interpret economic models, data, and policy outcomes at both micro and macro levels. 
• Apply theory to real-world contexts: Through Internal Assessments and case studies, students connect abstract concepts to contemporary economic events and media articles. 
• Acquire quantitative literacy: Graphical analysis, calculations of costs, revenue, profit, and macroeconomic indicators enable precise interpretation of economic phenomena. 
• Gain independence and research skills: IA tasks and extended projects encourage independent investigation, synthesis, and structured economic argumentation. 
• Prepare for further study and informed citizenship: Graduates are well-equipped for higher education, professional contexts, and engagement with economic issues in society. 
• Achieve measurable outcomes: Regular assessments, mocks, and Internal Assessments track progress and mastery, ensuring readiness for examinations at GCSE, IB SL/HL.