Riverside School Students Dive into Financial Education with Orpington Metro Bank
As part of Riverside School’s community week initiative, Orpington Metro Bank collaborated with the school to deliver its engaging and informative Money Zone programme to a small group of pupils. Riverside School is renowned for its dedication to students with special educational needs and disabilities and welcomed this opportunity to enhance financial literacy among its students.
Money Zone is a series of financial education lessons that Metro Bank offers to children - either virtually or in store. Money Zone comprises of four sessions - budgeting, saving, banking and the last session which takes place in store gives the students a behind the scenes look at the Bank including a visit to its vault. Metro Bank has delivered its Money Zone programme to over 250,000 children in 2,900 schools.
The Money Zone programme, led by Orpington Metro Bank Store Manager, Daniel Shade, was tailored to suit the diverse learning needs of Riverside’s students. Through interactive sessions, the students delved into essential topics such as the functioning of banks, handling money transactions, understanding interest, and exploring various currency notes including Euros and Scottish notes.
One of the highlights of the programme was a fun activity where the students had the chance to win exciting prizes, adding an element of excitement and motivation to their learning experience. Additionally, a visit to the bank’s vault sparked curiosity and discussions about personal possessions, with students sharing what they would keep in their imaginary safe deposit boxes, which included prized games and toys.
Daniel Shade commented: “At Metro Bank, we believe that every child deserves access to financial knowledge. Financial education is not just about the numbers; it’s about empowering young minds to make informed decisions and shape their own futures. Collaborating with Riverside School has been incredibly rewarding and seeing the students gain financial confidence is truly inspiring.”
Metro Bank’s Orpington store is located at Unit 4, Nugent Retail Park, Cray Avenue, Orpington, BR5 3RP. The store is currently open Monday to Friday 9:30am to 5pm and Saturdays 11am to 4pm. Orpington Metro Bank is also part of the Safe Space scheme – the store is available to anyone experiencing, or at risk of domestic abuse, providing the opportunity to safely call a helpline, support service or loved one.