Orpington Metro Bank colleague Daniel Shade recently hosted another successful Money Zone session for the pupils at Riverside School. The school caters to children with severe learning disabilities, and this interactive session aimed to introduce them to essential banking concepts in a fun and engaging way.
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.
During the session, Daniel guided the pupils through various activities designed to help them understand how banks operate. The children learned how customers can access and manage their money, explored different types of banknotes, and enjoyed a fascinating visit to the bank vault.
One of the highlights of the session was a discussion around what the children would choose to put in their own personal boxes, fostering a sense of ownership and decision-making. The pupils also participated in a lively game where they had to find different box numbers, adding an element of excitement and friendly competition.
To top off the experience, a prize was awarded to the winner, making the learning experience both educational and rewarding.
“I had an incredible time at Riverside School, seeing the children’s faces light up as they explored the world of banking was truly rewarding,” says Orpington Metro Bank Store Manager, Daniel Shade. “Making financial education fun and accessible to everyone is something I am passionate about, and it was great to see the kids so engaged and excited during our Money Zone session.”
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.