Greater Bank Opens Up Financial Literacy Program Across North Coast Classrooms
The Greater Bank Finance Academy
The Greater Bank Finance Academy is excited to announce that teachers across the North Coast will be able to deliver the High School Financial Literacy Program in 2024. This free program empowers Year 9 and 10 students with crucial financial literacy skills by providing a full course curriculum for classroom delivery.
Program Overview
The curriculum covers essential topics such as budgeting, saving, planning for the future, and understanding financial products like credit cards and loans. It also addresses modern financial trends, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the financial world they will navigate.
Greater Bank Chief Distribution Officer, Emma Brokate, emphasized the program’s goal of inspiring students with vital money management skills. “Financial literacy isn’t just about managing money; it’s about encouraging individuals to make informed decisions that enhance their financial stability and wellbeing,” said Ms. Brokate. She highlighted that enabling teachers to deliver the full program ensures that more students can access essential money management skills directly within their educational environment.
Collaboration and Benefits
This initiative is a collaborative effort between Greater Bank and the University of Newcastle, blending academic insights with practical financial experience. Dean of the University of Newcastle Business School, Professor James Skinner, underscored the benefits of the partnership. “Our collaboration with Greater Bank is built on a shared commitment to education and community engagement,” Professor Skinner said. “We are proud to enhance financial literacy in our communities and offer our students practical experiences that prepare them for the future.”
The program benefits high school students by providing them with practical financial knowledge, while also offering university students valuable experience as ambassadors, ensuring they are job-ready upon entering the workforce.
Course Content
The short course consists of four core subjects and three electives, all aligned with the NSW High School Curriculum. The downloadable lesson plans, activities, and presentation slides provided to teachers include:
• Lesson 1 – Introduction to Financial Literacy
• Lesson 2 – The Fundamentals of Financial Literacy
• Lesson 3 – Savings and Budgeting
• Lesson 4 – Credit and Debit Banking
Additionally, three optional electives are available to tailor the program to the school’s needs:
• Elective 1 – Investing
• Elective 2 – Cybercrime and Scams
• Elective 3 – Employment
Participation and Accessibility
Schools interested in participating in the Greater Bank Finance Academy can visit www.greater.com.au/uon to get in touch. The program is designed to be inclusive and accessible, ensuring that students from various backgrounds and regions can benefit.
This initiative reflects Greater Bank’s commitment to rolling out an Australian-curriculum-aligned program across all of NSW, highlighting the significant benefits of enhancing financial literacy among young Australians.
