COLLEGE students were visited by a senior economist as part of an initiative to educate and inspire students.

Andy Haldane, chief economist from the Bank of England, gave a talk at St Mary’s College, Blackburn to 150 students who are studying A-levels in economics, business, geography and mathematics.

He was accompanied by John Young, North West agent for the Bank of England and Brian Sloan, North West Deputy agent who spoke to the students about how economic data can affect their daily lives.

Following the presentation they met with economics students for refreshments and a more in-depth discussion about current economic topics including the current account deficit and possible impact of Brexit.

St Mary’s head of economics Kelvin Rice said: “It is a tremendous privilege to have Andy Haldane visit St Mary’s and to share his knowledge and experience with our students.

“Especially as TIME magazine named him one of the 100 most influential people in the world”.

Head boy James Hughes-Gooding said: “It was really interesting.

“I feel I have a much better understanding of how the economy works and the role of the Bank of England.”

The event was organised through Speakers for Schools, a UK charity launched in 2011 aimed at helping state schools inspire their students and broaden horizons through access to the insights, experiences and expertise of today’s leading figures.

Students said the talk helped them understand how economics and the global economy affect the world as a whole.

Economics student William Kerry said: “It inspired me to study economics further.

“I wasn’t fully aware of the impact it can have on so many people’s lives.”

Law student Annie Grimshaw said: “I gained a greater insight into how economics affects our daily lives.

“I now have a better understanding of how the economy works.”