Barclays opens registration for money skills week

Barclays has today opened the registration period for next year’s money skills programme for FE colleges, which aims to strengthen the financial skills and confidence of students.

The bank plans to provide 200 colleges with the resources to support a week of money management related activities between February and May 2013 for its third annual event.

In partnership with the National Skills Academy for Financial Services, colleges are being invited to apply for a grant, request support from Barlcays volunteers and receive the help they need to host the event via a new college portal.

Chris Hearn, head of education at Barclays, explained: “Building on the success of the programme this year, we’re determined to help young people develop the skills they need in later life to manage money effectively.

“For young people living in the UK it has never been more important to learn these skills with the rising cost of university tuition and increased living costs. We are proud to be part of a scheme which gives young people the skills they need for a secure financial future.”

Sylvia Perrins, CEO at the Skills Academy, said: “We’re looking forward to delivering the programme again. Last year there were clear improvements in the students’ money management skills, with those participating in the intensive tutorial aspect of the project demonstrating strong budgeting skills.

“It’s incredibly important to equip students with these life skills because it will help them take charge of their future and develop their confidence.”

Natalie Thornhill