Empowering Children Through Values-Based Financial Education
Ensuring every child enjoys lifelong financial wellbeing
At Just Finance Foundation, we are building a future where every child enjoys lifelong financial wellbeing. We know that to make this a reality, every child must receive meaningful financial education from an early age. Children learn from their families, schools, friends, and the communities around them. That’s why our LifeSavers programme is so unique – it not only teaches practical money skills but also instils core values that shape financial decision-making for life..
A Holistic Approach: More Than Just Numbers
Traditional financial education often focuses solely on skills like counting coins or budgeting. Our values-based approach goes further. We believe that financial literacy is about aligning money management with personal values and aspirations. By integrating lessons on generosity, justice, wisdom, and thankfulness, we help children understand that money choices impact not only their own lives but also their families, communities, and the environment.
In 2024 alone, our programmes reached over 111,234 children in primary schools. Of these, more than 41,377 experienced essential financial learning for the first time, and approximately 30,000 come from households experiencing economic disadvantage. Our commitment and strategy is clear: every child deserves a solid foundation in financial education, regardless of their background.
Real Impact in Their Own Words
The true value of our work is reflected in the voices of the children themselves. One 6-year-old pupil shared,
“I used to think that I need to do different things with money but now I know there are other things I can do with it.”
This simple yet profound insight captures the shift in perspective that our programme inspires. A 9-year-old explained how school-based lessons helped them:
“I save up for the things I want. The lessons at school helped me know what not to spend, and now I understand that money doesn’t grow on trees.”
These voices remind us why we do what we do. By fostering open conversations about money and linking practical skills with strong values, we empower children to make informed decisions that pave the way for a more secure future.
Driving Change Through Values in Schools
By adopting values-based financial education, schools can help improve practical learning outcomes and help prepare their pupils for work and life.
A PSHE Lead from Hampshire said it best:
“I enjoy the way that LifeSavers values incorporate into our school values, using the Milo bear to encourage children to talk about their views and ideas, and teaching children about how to be sensible with money in a fun way.”
Building a better future: the values behind our work
At JFF, our work is underpinned by core values that drive everything we do:
Ambition:
We aim high, knowing that the challenges of financial wellbeing demand urgent and bold solutions. Our transformative programmes equip every child with the skills and confidence to make informed money choices.
Credibility:
Trust is key when discussing money. Our programmes are built on proven methods and expert insights, providing educators with high-quality, impactful financial education.
Innovation:
In a rapidly changing financial environment, we continuously evolve. Our creative approaches prepare young people for real-world financial challenges and opportunities.
Collaboration:
We believe in working together. By partnering with schools, families, communities, and policymakers, we ensure our programmes remain relevant, effective, and accessible.
Inclusion:
Financial wellbeing is for everyone. We design our initiatives to reach all children, regardless of their abilities or background, ensuring no one is left behind.
As we look ahead to 2025, we are refining our approach and expanding our reach to further empower the next generation.
Join Us in Making a Lasting Impact
Our programme is more than just a series of lessons – it's a movement to ensure that every child grows up with the ability to make informed financial decisions. By supporting our work, you’re helping to create an environment where financial education is a cornerstone of a child’s education, setting them up for a lifetime of wellbeing.
Support our mission today and be a part of the change that reduces long-term poverty and builds a brighter, more financially literate future for all.