This term, Year 12 Business and Economics students were given the opportunity to visit the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) and Schroders. The trip provided students with an opportunity to broaden their understanding of the dynamic nature of the business and financial sectors. Blessed with great weather, the day was perfect for exploration and learning.

The first stop was the CBI, an organisation representing 190,000 businesses in the UK. On arrival, the students were welcomed by Ms. Janis Rinaldi, the Head of Economic Policy, who gave an engaging presentation that delved into significant topics such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and the cost of imports, highlighting their impact on the economy and the everyday lives of people. She emphasised the importance of understanding these concepts in the context of current economic conditions and policies. Students were particularly interested in the Q&A session, where they posed insightful questions about how the CBI supports small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

After the enlightening session at the CBI, the group made a visit to the Bank of England. Here, they had the chance to explore the historic building and learn about its pivotal role in the UK’s financial system. Students roamed the museum, where they saw exhibits on the history of money and the bank’s role in maintaining financial stability. A particularly memorable moment was when the students tried to pick up a gold bar in the museum’s vault exhibit.

The Year 12s proceeded to Schroders, a global asset management company with a rich history dating back to 1804. Students learned about the various opportunities they offer, including internships and graduate schemes. The trip concluded with a comprehensive tour of the Schroders office, including the state-of-the-art gym and the trading floor, showcasing the dynamic environment in which financial decisions are made.

The trip was a fantastic day out, providing both the business and economics students with valuable insights. They left with a wealth of knowledge and practical takeaways that will significantly benefit their studies and future careers.

Alisiya S