Financial Studies
Back to Subjects MenuWhat is the Intent of the Financial Studies in the Curriculum?
At Marsh Academy Sixth Form, the intent of the Diploma in Financial Studies (DipFS) is to develop financially informed, independent and ambitious young people who are equipped with the knowledge and skills required to make confident financial decisions throughout their lives.
The curriculum provides students with a comprehensive understanding of personal finance, business finance, financial services and the wider economy. Through the study of real-world financial issues, students develop the ability to analyse information, evaluate risk, solve problems and make reasoned judgements. These skills are essential not only for academic success but also for effective participation in modern society.
The DipFS programme supports Marsh Academy's commitment to preparing students for successful futures by developing financial capability, employability skills and economic awareness. Students are encouraged to understand the role that finance plays within individuals' lives, businesses and national economies, enabling them to become responsible and informed citizens.
Through engaging and relevant learning experiences, students develop their confidence in handling financial information, interpreting data and communicating financial decisions. The qualification also provides valuable preparation for progression to higher education, apprenticeships and careers within finance, banking, accountancy, business, economics and related sectors.
Ultimately, the curriculum aims to raise aspirations, promote social mobility and ensure that students leave Marsh Academy with the financial literacy and transferable skills needed to thrive in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.
Rationale
The Diploma in Financial Studies is an important part of the Marsh Academy Sixth Form curriculum because financial literacy is an essential life skill that supports both personal and professional success. As students prepare for the transition to adulthood, they are increasingly required to make significant financial decisions relating to education, employment, housing, borrowing, saving and investment. This qualification equips them with the knowledge and understanding needed to approach these decisions with confidence.
At Marsh Academy, we recognise the importance of providing a curriculum that is both academically rigorous and relevant to students' future lives. The DipFS qualification bridges the gap between theoretical learning and practical application by encouraging students to explore real-life financial scenarios and contemporary economic issues.
The qualification complements a wide range of subjects offered within the Sixth Form, including Business, Economics, Mathematics, Law, Criminology and the Social Sciences. It develops transferable skills such as critical thinking, analytical reasoning, interpretation of evidence, problem solving and effective communication, all of which support success across the wider curriculum.
The course also supports the Academy's commitment to improving students' career readiness and destination outcomes. By increasing awareness of employment opportunities within the financial and business sectors, students gain a greater understanding of potential career pathways and the skills required for future success.
Furthermore, the qualification contributes to the Academy's wider personal development programme by helping students become financially responsible and economically aware citizens. Through the development of practical financial knowledge and the application of this knowledge to authentic situations, students are better prepared for the opportunities and challenges they will encounter beyond Sixth Form.
As a result, the Diploma in Financial Studies provides Marsh Academy students with a valuable combination of academic challenge, practical relevance and future-focused learning, supporting them to achieve their ambitions and become successful members of society.
