The challenge
A recent Ofsted report into financial education highlighted the need to improve teachers' knowledge and confidence when teaching young people about personal financial education (PFE).
In addition, a recent survey by RBS found that 74% of UK secondary teachers they agreed that personal financial education provides young people with essential knowledge. However, of these only 15% of teachers felt very confident about delivering lessons in this topic. The survey found that 75% of teachers who teach PFE would like additional support in delivering PFE.
The face-to-face training days were designed to target these teachers with advice from a range of experts combined with practical classroom support.
The training days aimed to inspire teachers and provide them with confidence when meeting the requirements of the new curriculum framework 'PSHE: Economic well-being and financial capability'.
The objectives of the training days were for teachers to:
- understand the requirements of the framework
- place what they are already doing within the framework
- embed economic well-being and financial capability into the curriculum
- know about quality resources
- understand how to assess learning
- feel inspired and enthused by the day
- use MoneySense resources in the classroom.
Our approach
Six events took place: in London, Newcastle, Cardiff, Birmingham, Edinburgh and Glasgow. The events reached approximately 540 teachers in total.
A mixture of presentations and small group workshops facilitated learning throughout the day. We emphasised practical outcomes for delegates through inspiring speakers, and opportunities for hands-on workshops to trial activities, network and share good practice.
Mixed media, including film excerpts and interactive whiteboards, were used to drive home the information presented. A small group of students were invited to explain their perspective and the 'question time' session at the end of the day gave delegates the chance to fire their questions to a panel of experts.
Outcomes
Teachers were overwhelmingly supportive of the day and we have received incredibly positive feedback. Teachers greatly valued the opportunity for hands on workshops, the chance to find out about new resources and the opportunity to meet MoneySense coaches available to visit their schools.
"It has been an excellent day. One of the best CPD events on the calendar." Teacher at Edinburgh event
"It has been one of the best teaching events (if not the best) I have ever attended." Teacher at Birmingham event
"Thoroughly enjoyed the day – met like-minded colleagues. Will try to think outside the box when planning in future." Teacher at Birmingham event
"Very interesting day that makes me as a non-specialist feel much more confident in delivering PFE." Teacher at Cardiff event