Economics
BackWelcome to the Economics Department
Our Department Vision
The Economics Department aims to inspire students to develop a deep understanding of how individuals, businesses, governments, and global markets make decisions in a world of scarce resources.
We encourage students to think critically about current economic issues and to analyse the impact of economic decisions at local, national, and international levels.
Our curriculum promotes intellectual curiosity, analytical thinking, and evidence based decision making. Through the study of contemporary economic events and real-world case studies, students develop the skills to interpret data, evaluate policies, and construct well reasoned arguments.
At KS5, students study Edexcel A Level Economics B, gaining a strong understanding of how economies operate and how decisions made by individuals, businesses, and governments impact society. The course prepares students for university study and future careers while fostering critical thinking, curiosity, and a lifelong interest in economic affairs.
The Curriculum Leader is Ms S. Mughal, she may be contacted via email enquiries@copthall.barnet.sch.uk
Curriculum
Recommended Reading
- Tutor2u Economics and Business
- Economics Help
- Business Case Studies
- The Financial Times
- The Economist
- BBC News Business and Economics
- Bank of England Education Resources
Economics (Edexcel A Level Economics B)
The Undercover Economist by Tim Harford
An engaging introduction to economics that demonstrates how economic theory can be applied to everyday situations. The book helps students understand markets, pricing, competition, and incentives through real-world examples.
Freakonomics by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner
Explores how economic thinking can be used to explain human behaviour and decision-making. Students are encouraged to think critically about incentives, data, and the causes of economic outcomes.
23 Things They Don't Tell You About Capitalism by Ha-Joon Chang
Provides an alternative perspective on economic issues and encourages students to challenge assumptions about markets, governments, and globalisation. Particularly useful for developing evaluation skills.
The Bottom Billion by Paul Collier
Examines why some countries remain trapped in poverty and explores issues relating to economic development, growth, and international trade. Supports understanding of global economics.
Naked Economics by Charles Wheelan
Explains economic principles in a straightforward and engaging way, helping students connect classroom theory to contemporary economic issues.
Extra-curricular activities
Students can take part in national economics competitions, including essay competitions, policy challenges, investment simulations, and economic research projects designed for KS5 students.
We organise visits to local, national, and international organisations, enabling students to experience economic activity and gain insights into how businesses, governments, and financial institutions make decisions in an increasingly global economy.
Students are encouraged to attend guest speaker events, university workshops, and careers conferences to develop their understanding of economics, finance, public policy, international trade, and contemporary economic issues.
Our students also participate in enrichment activities such as economics societies, debating events, and current affairs discussions, helping them develop analytical skills, broaden their economic awareness, and prepare for higher education and future careers.
Facilities
We offer our students a wide range of resources, including computer facilities to research, textbooks, online resources and a subscription to the Economist.
