Play teaches children how to be smart with money

A fairytale play has been used to teach children how to be smart with their money.

The play, which was performed by pupils at Butterstile Primary School in Prestwich, was part of a roadshow by Manchester Credit Union, which aims to improve financial literacy among young people.

The roadshow, titled “Bee Smart with Money”, was delivered in partnership with creative education partner Altru.

It aimed to improve children’s financial literacy and confidence in managing money.

The play, titled “Fairytale Money Troubles”, featured characters such as Rapunzel, the Three Little Pigs, Thumbelina, and an unscrupulous loan shark.

The children learned about the importance of talking about money, choosing responsible lenders, and saving for a rainy day.

They performed the play for their school and parents at the end of the day.

Mandy Wilcock, chief executive officer of Manchester Credit Union, said: “The Bee Smart with Money roadshows are all about helping to achieve one of our key goals for Greater Manchester – making financial education accessible to all and supporting the next generation of Manchester Credit Union members.

“Financial literacy in adults and children is not where it should be in the UK.

“As a lender with a long history serving the people of Manchester, it’s important we invest in the local community and give them the knowledge to make good financial decisions throughout their lives.

“Children’s relationships with money start at seven, so it is timely to get them thinking about their financial habits and futures now.”

It aimed to improve children’s financial literacy and confidence (Image: Supplied) Butterstile Primary assistant headteacher Julia Critchley said: “I really loved the way they explored an important message through drama – the children will remember it forever.

“It’s amazing to see just how much the children have got from the sessions.

“They’ve learned about being responsible with money in a fun and engaging way and have developed their confidence skills, too.

“We’ve certainly got some budding actors in our midst.”

Kate Cotterell, from Altru, said: “Drama is a great way to get children to engage with big subjects.

“It ignites their curiosity, helps them be better learners and gives them the tools to imagine different futures and outcomes.

“We’re delighted to help Manchester Credit Union deliver such an important project.”

Manchester Credit Union is a financial cooperative that has served Greater Manchester’s savers and borrowers for more than 30 years.

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The Bee Smart with Money campaign has so far engaged with 150 pupils across Manchester as part of its mission to develop a region of savvy savers.

Ms Wilcock added: “We’ve had an exceptional response to the roadshows so far, and plan to run this financial literacy programme yearly with schools across Greater Manchester.

“Any primary schools interested in taking part should get in touch via [email protected].”