Year 13 students prepare for financial independence

At St Mary's, we understand that financial literacy is essential for young adults, especially as they prepare for university and the independence that comes with it. To equip our Year 13 students with practical financial skills, we recently welcomed Jo Baldwin, Director of Fiscorum Financial Intelligence, for a series of workshops focused on navigating financial life at university and beyond.

Jo led two interactive sessions, covering vital financial topics that often surprise students. Our students explored the difference between good and bad debt, an essential lesson in making wise financial decisions, and gained insights into understanding credit history, the impact of interest, and the financial realities of student loans. Jo also shared practical guidance on using (or avoiding) overdrafts and credit cards, helping students make informed choices about their spending habits.

Beyond these technical aspects, the sessions encouraged students to reflect on their attitudes towards money, fostering a mindset for long-term financial well-being. Jo’s advice extended to managing living expenses, budgeting realistically, and even understanding the basics of taxation. For many students, this was an eye-opener, particularly around financial planning and income options for students.

These workshops are part of St Mary's commitment to preparing our students for all facets of life after school, empowering them to excel both academically and financially as they step into the next stage of their journey.