Economics, Football and the Future
Young people in the North West are significantly less likely to study economics than their peers in London, despite the subject opening doors to high value careers and vital life skills. Research commissioned by the Bank of England shows that students in London are more than twice as likely to take economics at A level, raising concerns about future regional representation in economic decision making roles.
To help address this gap, the University of Manchester partnered with Discover Economics, the Bank of England and the Office for National Statistics to host The Economics of Football on 31 March. The event welcomed over 100 Year 10 pupils from widening participation schools across the region for a hands on introduction to economics on campus.
Using football as a familiar and engaging context, pupils took part in interactive workshops linked to the 2026 Men’s World Cup. Sessions explored how ticket pricing is influenced by supply and demand, how football contributes to the national economy, and how wages, taxation and productivity shape both sport and society. The day concluded with a panel discussion featuring University of Manchester alumni, economists and current students.
The event forms part of a new three year partnership between the University of Manchester and the Bank of England to co create the Teach Economics initiative. The programme supports teachers to build confidence and capability in delivering economics in more state schools, starting in the North West.
Professor Angela Davies, University Academic Lead for Lifelong Learning, said:
“Using football to bring economics to life is a powerful way to engage young people. Through Teach Economics, with the Bank of England, we are investing in high quality professional development for teachers across the North West and building sustainable pathways into economics.”
Sam McLoughlin, Senior Campaign Manager at Discover Economics, added:
“By bringing economics to life through something as universal as football, we are widening horizons and helping the North West’s talent see themselves as the economists of the future.”