Economics is the study of how scarce resources are allocated; it is divided into micro and macro issues and problems. Business Studies looks at the way that businesses operate and considers the internal and external opportunities and constraints presented by the business environment.
The Department is based at Castle Campus and the subjects are taught by four specialist teachers in rooms equipped with television and video. Business Studies is offered at GCSE level at Castle Campus; the subject is very popular at this level with fifty students on average selecting to study it. The course introduces business concepts and looks at how businesses in the UK operate. Results in the subject have been consistently good.
At AS and A2 Level both Economics and Business Studies courses are offered. In 'A' level Business Studies and Economics there were 59 students in 2006 and they achieved a 100% pass rate and 71% A/B grades. In GCSE Business studies there were 40 students last year and they achieved a 95% pass rate and 43% A*/A grades. Many students progress to University to study either Economics or Business related courses.
The Department organises a number of activities for students. Business Studies students visit local companies to gain an appreciation of the practical application of their studies. Sixth Form students attend specialist conferences in London addressed by a wide range of influential speakers. The Young Enterprise scheme allows all Sixth Form students to gain hands-on experience of business by setting up a mini-enterprise company. Companies from the School have often been successful in the local and regional competitions and in 2005 our Berkhamsted company "Neon" became East of England champions and reached the last twelve nationally, acquitting themselves well in the prestigious National Finals at the Savoy Hotel, London.
