Young people brought their business skills to Parliament Buildings this week as part of a financial education and enterprise programme organised by Ulster Bank.
Part of Ulster Bank’s MoneySense for Schools initiative, which is used by more than 300 Northern Ireland post-primary schools, the session taught pupils about business, teamwork, delegation and presentation skills.
Pupils worked in teams during the session in the Long Gallery at Parliament Buildings to develop business plans for the opening of coffee shop, with a winner selected by judges.
The pupils from Ulidia College, Carrickfergus were supported throughout the day by Ulster Bank experts and volunteers.
Jill Smyth, head of Money-Sense, said: “Ulster Bank has been running MoneySense sessions in post primary schools across Northern Ireland since 2007, and it is now in use by over 300 schools. Today’s event allows us to create further awareness of the programme amongst key influencers, as well as to provide the pupils with some insight into Northern Ireland’s political institutions, where important financial decisions are made.”
Members of the NI Assembly’s Education Committee, who were hosting the event, met with pupils to find out more about their ideas for launching their business.
Michelle McIlveen, chairperson of the Education Committee said: “Basic finance and business competence are essential to a modern economy. The MoneySense for Schools initiative is an excellent opportunity for schools to supplement their current curriculums with programmes that teach key employability skills.
“The committee welcomes this innovative programme.” Ulster Bank’s MoneySense programme is a free, online resource open to all teachers in schools on the island of Ireland.
Teachers can use Money- Sense independently or can call on the support of trained Ulster Bank volunteers who visit schools to deliver financial education seminars covering banking, budgeting, setting up a business and preparing for the world of work.