In September 2003, in response to the changing needs of students coming through the College, a new stand alone qualification in Economics was offered for the first time at Tollbar BEC and has proved very popular amongst students, with the majority choosing to study the subject further at University.
The course is delivered by two specialist staff qualified in Economics to degree level. In 2007, 67% of students studying Economics gained a Grade A. In previous years, Economics students have secured places at the prestigious London School of Economics.
This course was supplemented by the introduction of AS Level Business Studies in September 2004. This has proved to be an extremely popular choice with over 60 students currently studying the course at A2 and AS Levels. The course is delivered by a total of five specialist teaching staff using two designated Business Studies room, each fully equipped with PCs and a mini-library. In 2007, 46% of students achieved Grades A to B at A2 Level.
Students of Economics and Business Studies have also been involved in a number of extra-curricular activities that enhance the learning process. These include The Ogden Trust Enterprise Challenge, Young Enterprise, The Bank of England’s “Target 2point0 Challenge” and The Midlands Development Agency’s Enterprise Challenge.
At A Level the Curriculum Area uses the College system of assessment, whereby each student receives their half-termly grade based on A Level exam criteria and a target grade is reviewed regularly for each student.
All students undertake modular examinations January and June each year and this, together with frequent assessed homework and assessment of coursework units, provides staff with an extensive evidence base with which to manage progress.
Progress on modules is carefully monitored by staff to help guide students to identify key areas and strategies for improvements in attainment.