Newbury College took part in Barclays Money Week last week, a national event, sponsored by Barclays Bank which teaches the importance of managing money effectively. Activities and events were held throughout the week cumulating with a Fashion Show on the final day.
Barclays Money Skills Week is a money management programme which has been designed to strengthen financial skills of further education students. The events help build knowledge and confidence; reduce financial stress and increase chances of achieving their goals. The week comprised of several financial based activities which included, 'Too good to be true?' which focused on raising awareness of the different types of scams and how easy it is to become a victim of one. Another event was the 'Taste Test' which compared supermarket value brands against the branded equivalent of everyday food we love. The fashion show on the final day was part of the 'Style on a Budget' activity, which the students planned and organised, including the financial budgeting for the event.
Business Course Leader, Catherine Jack, who organised Newbury College's Barclays Money Skills Week said, "Barclays Money Week is a popular programme on our calendar. Business students look forward to it with a great deal of excitement. It was amazing to watch the Business students perform so well in lessons and lunchtime activities. Their energy and enthusiasm are inspiring. The students worked directly with lecturers and classes providing activities for other students, booking events, rooms and organising resources. I am very proud of all the students."
During money week, students from a variety of courses took part in the 'Style on a Budget' tutorial where students were given £20 per group to go out and buy a suitable outfit for a job interview. They then put together a catwalk show to display what they have bought. The event saw more than 150 students take part and was judged by Communications Officer Shaun Daubney, HR Services Officer Rebecca Ebdon, Tutorial Team Leader Lorna Sherlock and Level 3 Business students, Luke Bellinger and Jack Lynch. After gathering fame on the College runway, the winning students, Rebecca Ford Level 3 Art and Design and Jake Kidd Level 3 Interactive Media, were able to keep their £20 outfit for future interviews.
One of Newbury College's business students, Lyndon Parry, who has an article featured on Barclays Money Skills website, said, "Organising events to take part during Barclays Money Week has been an exciting challenge! It is a brilliant opportunity to educate others whilst learning about dealing with money myself. Something that is sure to be useful to us all in the future".