professional studies
A-LEVEL
economics certificate &
diploma
financial studies
REASONS TO STUDY THIS COURSE REASONS TO STUDY THIS COURSE
3 It offers a fascinating challenge as it allows you to consider
the topical and controversial issues of the day in a lively and
analytical way.
3 You will develop an understanding of how individuals make
decisions based on economic principles.
3 You will understand what the Government’s aims are and how
it attempts to fulfil them.
3 You will learn how governments raise revenue and then
decide how to spend this on different projects.
3 The awarding body is the London Institute of Banking and
Finance.
3 You are interested in a career in the Banking and Finance
sector
3 Financial capability is an essential life skill and this course will
help you make sound financial decisions.
3 It will encourage you to become a sensible saver and
understand financial planning.
WHAT YOU WILL STUDY
WHAT YOU WILL STUDY
Year 1 (AS) – Central Economic Problem, How do individuals
make decisions? Government Objectives
Year 2 (A-Level) – you will also study Business Economics and
industrial theory, Behavioural Economics, Financial Services. Year 1 Certificate in Financial Studies - Financial Capability for
the Immediate and Short Term, Financial Capability for the
Medium and Long Term.
Year 2 Diploma in Financial Studies - Sustainability of Individual
Finances, Sustainability of the Financial Services System.
HOW YOU WILL BE ASSESSED HOW YOU WILL BE ASSESSED
AS - two 90-minute exams
A-Level - three two-hour exams
The exams are short questions, multiple choice questions and
essays based on topical case studies. Exams based on a pre-released case study and e-tests.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED TO TAKE THIS COURSE
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GCSE English and Maths minimum grade 5
average grade at GCSE of 5.5
genuine interest in current affairs and the world around you
willingness to read news articles and economics news stories
ability to listen to other people’s opinions and contribute to
discussions.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED TO TAKE THIS COURSE
• GCSE English and Maths minimum grade 4
• ability to use and interpret data with confidence
• ability to analyse extended case studies and produce essay
answers
• interest in current and financial affairs
• ability to take part in discussions and use real financial
examples
• willingness and ability to work independently.
PROGRESSION
PROGRESSION
Economists are highly sought after – they are the second most
highly paid graduates. Those who have a good understanding
of the economy will find rewarding occupations in banks and
financial institutions, manufacturing and service companies, the
media, government and international organisations such as the
World Bank. Many of our students choose to go on to study
Economics to degree level.
Financial Studies gives you a good understanding about careers
in financial services such as financial advisors, bankers and debt
advisors. Many of these careers offer very comprehensive
training pathways and careers for students. There are university
courses in financial studies that offer a direct pathway of
continued study in this field.
PRIESTLEY EXTRA
PRIESTLEY EXTRA
Visits to the UK and European Parliaments and other financial
institutions. Chance to take part in the Bank of England Interest
Rate Challenge and the national Stock Market Challenge
operated by the Institute of Financial Studies.
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See page 24 for vocational qualifications key.
The Student Investor Challenge gives you the chance to be a
stockbroker in a fast paced and competitive market. The Young
Financial Journalist competition centres on producing a 1,000-
word article on a current affairs question and is judged by
leading financial journalists. The City of London visit focuses on
a presentation at the London Institute of Banking and Finance, a
visit to the Bank of England and a walking tour of the financial
district.