New Financial Education Guidance Launched to Support Teaching in Schools

In Northern Ireland, financial capability is a statutory requirement across all key stages as part of Mathematics and Numeracy, Personal Development and Mutual Understanding and Learning for Life and Work. 

Those that receive a meaningful financial education are more likely to be active savers, have more positive attitudes towards money and feel confident in managing it, according to MaPS.

The guidance which has been produced for school leaders, teachers, governors and learning organisations, offer tips and techniques on embedding and delivering a good quality financial education.  Also included are signposts to additional resources and case studies of schools who have successfully taken part.

There are also signposts to further resources and case studies.

Gerry Campbell, Chief Executive at CCEA, said:

We are pleased to support the Money and Pensions Service in the development of this guidance, recognising the importance of implementing and enhancing financial education for our young people. 

Financial capability is an important life skill for everyone; the ability to make sound financial decisions is the key to identifying and making best use of the opportunities in today’s changing world.

We hope this guidance supports our teachers in delivering essential financial education in the classroom.

Janine Maher, Northern Ireland Manager at the Money and Pensions Service, said: 

We’ve spoken to children, teachers and now the general public, many of whom are also parents. The single, resounding message we keep on hearing is that too many students are missing out on the money skills they need. 

This means they’re less likely to understand their finances, save or talk about money. They’ll also be less able to make informed decisions when it comes to vital tasks like budgeting, borrowing and managing their money. 

This new guidance, produced with colleagues at CCEA, explains the importance of a meaningful financial education and provides teachers with the tools and resources to meet the curriculum. By working together on this, we can all make a vital difference to young people’s lives. 

To access the guidance, visit the Money & Pension Services website.