• Instagram
  • Twitter
  • Youtube
  • Flickr
  • Facebook
  • Brothers of the Sacred Heart
  • Work With Us
  • Parent Links
      • Edulink
      • School Gateway
      • Transport & Travel
      • Sports & Fixtures
      • School Uniform
      • Catering
      • Public Examination Information
      • Parent Guides
  • Contact Us
St Columba's Independent Co-Educational Catholic Day School
  • Welcome
  • About Us
    • Brothers of the Sacred Heart
    • History of St Columba’s College
    • Co-Education
    • Inspection Reports
    • Examination Results
    • Policies
    • Governors and College Leadership
  • School Life
      • Term Dates
      • Academic Excellence
      • Curriculum Subjects
      • Stretch & Challenge
      • Digital Learning
      • Academic Support
      • Pastoral Care & Wellbeing
      • Our House System
      • Extended Curriculum & SHAPE
      • Clubs & Activities
      • Student Leadership
      • Trips & Visits
      • Charity & Service
      • Catering
      • School Uniform
      • Sports at St Columba’s
  • Admissions
    • Admissions Process
    • Visit Us
    • Travelling to St Columba’s College
    • Fees, Bursaries & Scholarships
    • Academic Support (SEND)
    • FAQS
    • Virtual Visit Hub
  • Prep
    • Welcome from the Head of Prep
    • Meet the Staff
    • Prep Curriculum Overview
    • Prep Subjects
    • Pre-Senior Baccalaureate (PSB)
    • Wrap Around Care
    • Moving to the Senior School
  • Senior
    • Welcome from the Head of Senior
    • Meet The Staff
    • Senior Curriculum Overview
    • Senior Subjects
    • Public Examination Information
  • Sixth Form
    • Welcome to the Sixth Form
    • Meet The Staff
    • Sixth Form Curriculum Overview
    • Sixth Form Subjects
    • Careers & Higher Education
  • Alumni
  • What’s On
    • Term Dates
    • Calendar
    • News
    • Photo Gallery
    • St Columba’s Socials
    • Sports & Fixtures
    • St Columba’s Parents’ Association
  • Brothers of the Sacred Heart
  • Parent Links
    • EduLink
    • School Gateway
    • Transport & Travel
    • Sports & Fixtures
    • School Uniform
    • Catering
    • Public Examination Information
    • Parent Guides
  • Work With Us
  • Contact Us
  • Menu Menu

Business & Economics

“Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.”

The above quote from Seneca’s writings is often used when mentoring people in business, and encapsulates the department’s philosophy when teaching Business and Economics.

We offer a creative and active learning environment which inspires each student to engage with the subject and to develop their own potential. Teachers support and extend students’ study skills, with a view to enhancing both their examination successes and their abilities to forge successful lives in the future.

The department offers a GCSE in Business at Key Stage 4, based on the Edexcel specification. For the Theme 1 paper, students are always fascinated and often surprised to learn about the risks and rewards of entrepreneurship, including start-up issues, for which we are able to draw on the direct experiences of some of our own alumni. In Form 5 the students prepare for their Theme 2 paper, studying the main components of larger businesses such as Marketing, Finance, Human Resources and Operations Management. Regular homework, support sessions and revision clinics are held throughout the year. All Form 4 students benefit from a lively, challenging Business EECA day in the Trinity Term.

In the Sixth Form, students have a chance to specialise by opting for the AQA Business course or choosing the Edexcel Economics A course. The department also offers the LIBF – Lessons In Financial Education at Level 2 in KS3 and the Level 3 Certificate in Financial Studies course to Lower Sixth Form students, as part of their enrichment programme. Each year, the students also have the opportunities to participate in the Tycoon Enterprise Challenge, and the College takes part in the ICAEW 6th form competitions.

Senior Business

Business: Senior

Business Course Description

GCSE 9-1 Business Pearson-Edexcel

Curriculum Overview

What will I learn?

  • You’ll start by exploring the world of small businesses through the lens of an entrepreneur. How and why do business ideas come about? What makes a successful business?
  • You’ll learn how to develop an idea, spot an opportunity and turn it into a successful business
  • You will understand how to make a business effective, manage money and see how the world around us affects small businesses and all the people involved
  • Next year you’ll move on to investigating business growth. How does a business develop beyond the start-up phase? You’ll learn about key business concepts and issues and decisions you need to make when growing a business and working in a global business
  • You’ll learn about meeting customer needs, making marketing, operational, financial and human resourcing decisions and you’ll explore how the wider world impacts the business as it grows

What are the unique selling points of studying this subject at St Columba’s College?

Student View

“Business gives you the knowledge on accountancy, HR, operations and marketing. Studying business has given me a greater insight into the world of finance which has helped me find the courses I wish to study next as well as what career path to choose. It is a great essay subject that has helped my essays improve across all my subjects by making me think more creatively and in-depth which are skills that I have already been able to take out into the world outside of education”
– Jacob Business Student

How are the students assessed?

Linear Course 2 x 1h 45 min exams at the end of the 2 year course

Home Learning (how frequent, style, etc)

What will I do as homework?

2 set per week

You should be willing to spend another 45-60 minutes per week on independent activities to support your learning. This time could be spent:

  • reading of texts as directed
  • personal reading of the business and economic press (broadsheet newspapers/websites), educational magazines and books on the reading list
  • watching relevant TV programmes/Youtube Business GCSE channels
  • research for homework or to bring to class
  • personal note-making/ learning for class tests/ file organisation
  • research for in class group assignments and presentations
  • using resources on Class notebook/ MS TEAMS and relevant websites

How can parents/guardians support their child’s learning?

Being upto date with World Business News, reading around the subject including BBC business news, Business Review, The Week, also Business related docu-series e.g. inside the factory

Useful Links (e.g. bbc bitesize, youtube, mymaths, educationquizzes..)

online channels @Bizconsesh @TakingTheBiz @tutor2U

Sixth Form Business

Business: Sixth Form

Course Description

A Level Business GCE Advanced Business Examination Board – AQA 7132

Curriculum Overview

The AQA syllabus is intended to encourage you to study business in a variety of contexts (e.g. large/small, UK focused/global, service/manufacturing) and consider the following:

  • Understand and appreciate the nature and scope of business, and the role of business in society
  • Develop critical understanding of organisations, the markets they serve and the process of adding value. This should involve consideration of the internal workings and management of organisations and, in particular, the process of decision-making in a dynamic external environment
  • Be aware that business behaviour can be studied from the perspective of a range of stakeholders including customer, manager, creditor, owner/shareholder and employee
  • Be aware of the economic, environmental, ethical, governmental, legal, social and technological issues associated with business activity

Develop skills in:

  • decision-making and problem solving in the light of evaluation
  • the quantification and management of information, where appropriate
  • use of non-quantitative and quantitative data in decision making (including the interpretation of index numbers and calculations such as ratios and percentages)
  • effective communication

The emphasis should be on the application of concepts and issues to the local context (i.e. the student’s own country), where appropriate.

(AQA Specification 2017)

What are the unique selling points of studying this subject at St Columba’s College?

Business is about real working practises and environments that students will come across in their working lives. We have worked in real business environments and bring to the classroom a rich thread of anecdotes to bring theory to life. We have a passion for our subject and encourage curiosity. Wider reading is an integral part of making sense of business theories and we lend a large stock of Business and Management books to students. This is supported by watching a range of appropriate documentaries and films.

We follow the AQA specification which, based upon independent research of a selection of top Russell Group universities, was viewed as being the preferred choice for institutions such as Warwick, York and Durham Uni due to its academic rigor and subject content. The focus is upon both long term strategic and medium term tactical decision making and the impact of external factors on business.

Students of this course will be studying business in a variety of contexts such as the interrelated nature of business activities and how they affect competitiveness, the influences on functional decisions and plans including ethical and environmental issues and use of non-quantitative and quantitative data in decision making (including the interpretation of index numbers and calculations such as ratios and percentages)

How are the students assessed?

Linear Course 3 x 2 hour exams at the end of the 2 year course

Home Learning

Twice a week approx. A variety of methods MCQ, Short answer, Exam style written work, also research, presentations, note making and consolidation work.

How can parents/guardians support their child’s learning?

Being actively engaged in Business in the news, reading around the subject including BBC business news, Business Review, The Week, also online channels @Bizconsesh @TakingTheBiz @tutor2U

Useful Links

online channels @Bizconsesh @TakingTheBiz @tutor2U

Sixth Form Economics

Economics: Sixth Form

Why choose Economics?

Every one of us is an economic agent – we earn income, we spend or save, we send signals to firms to produce the output we desire, our households pay taxes and we all benefit from state provision, be it street lighting, defence or healthcare. How do we know we are making good decisions?

Studying Economics provides the tools with which to determine answers to these questions. We have a passion for our subject and encourage curiosity. You are introduced to methods of individual study and research that will be vital to your progress and success at university and in work.

We encourage teams to participate in Enterprise Challenges and enter the BASE competition. Additional provision is made for anyone who intends to study Economics at university. We encourage you to attend RES lectures and events. We also hold regular homework support sessions and revision clinics throughout the year.

Whilst Economics is not listed by the Russell Group as a ‘facilitating subject’, it is a highly regarded academic field of study which can provide the underpinning knowledge, awareness and skills to progress to a wide range of further studies and professions.

What will you learn?

You will take the linear two-year A Level Economics course which provides a strong foundation in both microeconomics and macroeconomics. In the first year, we will investigate how markets work and consider the effectiveness of a range of market failure solutions as well as studying key macroeconomic objectives and international trade. In the second year, we look at competitive market structures and the labour market together with the study of macroeconomic management and the role of the state from a global perspective.

Learning this subject is a gateway to many jobs, particularly in the financial sector, and more generally to understand what is going on in the world.
Andrew, Economics Student

Student view

The economics teachers at SCC are dedicated to ensuring that everyone understands the topics. Learning this subject is a gateway to many jobs, particularly in the financial sector, and more generally to understand what is going on in the world around you and how government decisions can affect you.

I primarily chose economics because I enjoyed studying it at GCSE. The teachers are always happy to assist wherever you may be struggling, and are very engaging in lessons. They are dedicated to unleashing each student’s true potential through lunchtime clinics and continuous support. The course is split into two main sectors, being taught by different teachers, making it easier to focus on the individual aspects of each component. My passion has been further developed through the ICAEW Base competition, in which my team made it to the national finals, all due to the help from the economic teachers, whom mentored us throughout.

Andrew Economics Student

Entry Requirement

Grade 7, 8 or 9 in Business GCSE desirable. Students wishing to study Economics must have a good grade 7 or above at GCSE Maths and a GCSE essay-based subject such as English or Humanities at grade 7.

GCE Economics Examination Board
PEARSON EDEXCEL 9EC0

Curriculum Subjects

  • Art & Design
  • Biology
  • Business & Economics
  • Chemistry
  • Computer Science
  • Design Technology
  • Drama
  • English
  • Financial Education
  • Future Prep
  • Geography
  • History
  • Latin & Classics
  • Library
  • Mathematics
  • Modern Foreign Languages
  • Music
  • Physical Education
  • Physics
  • Politics
  • PSHE
  • Psychology
  • Religious Education
  • Science
  • Social Studies
  • Sociology

Key Links

  • Admissions
  • Calendar
  • Term Dates
  • News
  • Work With Us
  • Sports

Contact Us

St Columba’s College,
King Harry Lane,
St Albans,
Hertfordshire,
AL3 4AW

Transport & Directions

Tel: 01727 855185

Latest News

Exclusive Q&A with Savannah! Student and Saracens Rugby Star…

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in News, Sixth Form, Sport, Website
Read more
https://stcolumbascollege.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-SEPT-ST-COLUMBAS-COLLEGE-MARKETING-10.jpg 600 800 Bethanie Roberts https://stcolumbascollege.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/st-columbas-web-logo.png Bethanie Roberts2023-09-28 10:00:182023-09-28 10:07:28Exclusive Q&A with Savannah! Student and Saracens Rugby Star…

Columban Fayre 2023: Unveiling the Ultimate Pre-Christmas Delight!

September 27, 2023/0 Comments/in Charity, Columban Community, News, Whole College
Read more
https://stcolumbascollege.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/columban-fayre-2023-newsarticel.png 600 800 Bethanie Roberts https://stcolumbascollege.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/st-columbas-web-logo.png Bethanie Roberts2023-09-27 14:52:472023-09-27 14:54:42Columban Fayre 2023: Unveiling the Ultimate Pre-Christmas Delight!

The Power of a Handshake

September 26, 2023/0 Comments/in News, Website, Whole School
Read more
https://stcolumbascollege.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/poeer-of-handshake.jpg 600 800 Bethanie Roberts https://stcolumbascollege.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/st-columbas-web-logo.png Bethanie Roberts2023-09-26 14:52:272023-09-26 15:49:38The Power of a Handshake

Open Day Success at St Columba’s College!

September 26, 2023/0 Comments/in Columban Community, Events, News, Whole College
Read more
https://stcolumbascollege.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-SEPT-ST-COLUMBAS-COLLEGE-MARKETING-56.jpg 600 800 Bethanie Roberts https://stcolumbascollege.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/st-columbas-web-logo.png Bethanie Roberts2023-09-26 09:35:192023-09-26 11:21:20Open Day Success at St Columba’s College!
©St Columba’s College 2023 | Terms & Privacy | Brand Guidelines | Registered Charity No. 1088480 | Proudly built by Lemongrass Media School Website Design Services
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
  • Youtube
  • Flickr
  • Facebook
Scroll to top
  • Welcome
  • About Us
    • Brothers of the Sacred Heart
    • History of St Columba’s College
    • Co-Education
    • Inspection Reports
    • Examination Results
    • Policies
    • Governors and College Leadership
    • Back
  • School Life
    • Term Dates
    • Academic Excellence
    • Curriculum Subjects
    • Stretch & Challenge
    • Digital Learning
    • Academic Support
    • Pastoral Care & Wellbeing
    • Our House System
    • Extended Curriculum & SHAPE
    • Clubs & Activities
    • Student Leadership
    • Trips & Visits
    • Charity & Service
    • Catering
    • School Uniform
    • Sports at St Columba’s
    • Back
  • Admissions
    • Admissions Process
    • Visit Us
    • Travelling to St Columba’s College
    • Fees, Bursaries & Scholarships
    • Academic Support (SEND)
    • FAQS
    • Virtual Visit Hub
    • Back
  • Prep
    • Welcome from the Head of Prep
    • Meet the Staff
    • Prep Curriculum Overview
    • Prep Subjects
    • Pre-Senior Baccalaureate (PSB)
    • Wrap Around Care
    • Moving to the Senior School
    • Back
  • Senior
    • Welcome from the Head of Senior
    • Meet The Staff
    • Senior Curriculum Overview
    • Senior Subjects
    • Public Examination Information
    • Back
  • Sixth Form
    • Welcome to the Sixth Form
    • Meet The Staff
    • Sixth Form Curriculum Overview
    • Sixth Form Subjects
    • Careers & Higher Education
    • Back
  • Alumni
  • What’s On
    • Term Dates
    • Calendar
    • News
    • Photo Gallery
    • St Columba’s Socials
    • Sports & Fixtures
    • St Columba’s Parents’ Association
    • Back
  • Brothers of the Sacred Heart
  • Parent Links
    • EduLink
    • School Gateway
    • Transport & Travel
    • Sports & Fixtures
    • School Uniform
    • Catering
    • Public Examination Information
    • Parent Guides
    • Back
  • Work With Us
  • Contact Us
  • Search
    • Back
X