Session 1: Communication skills and growth mindset
o Identifying students' strengths and skills and skills
o Identifying areas students want to develop further
o Identifying their ambitions, big life dreams and goals
o Identifying what qualities they value in friendship (helping them with positive life choices)
o Teaching them how first impressions work and how they can influence this
o Fun teamwork exercise to end - building towers - key learning around planning, communication and teamwork skills
Session 2: Budgeting: focused on how to build, look after and manage a budget.
Session 3: Budgeting continued and the wider financial context: using a budgeting 'game' with play money we consolidate learning from session 2. And introduce entrepreneurialism (how to make money from our strengths including making things/baking/art etc), taxation, minimum wage and credit ratings.
Session 4: Credit cards, debit cards, scams and gambling: this will be focused on credit cards, debit cards and debt awareness, alongside developing an understanding and awareness of scams and gambling products.
- Feedback from Key Stakeholders
Students have been thoroughly enjoying the WizeUp programme. Any external guest joining the session could easily observe that the students are highly engaged and enthusiastic, actively participating by expressing their views, demonstrating their understanding of the topic being discussed, and sharing relevant experiences.
- Educators' Perspectives on Student Progress
Teachers and support staff are excited and pleased about this year’s launch of an educational programme solely dedicated to SEND students.
Lei McLean, He and Career Adviser said:
‘The WIZEUP sessions delivered in partnership with the Jack Petchey Foundation have been thoughtfully executed, demonstrating care and respect for the students' strengths and challenges. The facilitator has consistently used non-judgmental language to create an inclusive atmosphere, encouraging active participation and meaningful contributions from the students which included physical tasks as well as verbal contributions.
I found the content of the sessions both engaging and informative. Notably, the students have responded very positively to Laura’s approach, frequently asking when the next session will take place, which reflects their enthusiasm and connection to the program and the learning they have participated.’
Laura Flynn, Wize Up Facilitator said:
"It has been absolutely wonderful for WizeUp Financial Education to be able to deliver three training sessions for Capital City College as part of their SEND provision. The students have been so engaged in the workshops and have participated fully with all aspects of the lessons. They are curious and determined learners, willing to develop their skills and work hard either individually or in teams to problem-solve during session. It has been clear to me that the College is determined to provide them with outstanding support and this is reflected not only in the academic engagement I have seen but also in how happy the students are. They are encouraging and supportive of each other. Often breaking into spontaneous rounds of applause when one of them either answers a question correctly or attempts to answer a question. A happy environment is conducive to the best learning and it is clear that the College provides both to its SEND community of students. I look forward to returning next year".
- Challenges and Lessons Learned
This year, the WizeUp programme was scheduled outside of timetabled hours. However, due to constraints affecting the transport service provided by Islington Council, the Careers and Curriculum teams have agreed to organise the programme again next year during timetabled hours. This adjustment will enable a higher number of students to benefit from this educational initiative.
For more information please contact or SEND & PRU lead Laura at laura.flynn@wizeupfinancialeducation.co.uk
