Greater Bank employees across the Hunter are gearing up once again to teach vital financial literacy skills to local high school students in 2024.
Launching in 2019, the Greater Bank Finance Academy is a partnership between Greater Bank and the University of Newcastle, with both organisations continuing to deliver the program in the Hunter this year.
Emma Dumbrill, Branch Manager at Greater Bank Glendale, is one of 16 Greater Bank employees to deliver the program as an ambassador in 2024.
“I was a savvy saver growing up, and I really liked to know I would have money for the things I wanted. It wasn’t until I purchased my first property that I truly understood the importance of financial literacy,” Miss Dumbrill said.
“While many students will learn how to calculate interest in school, they might not be taught how to apply that math into their everyday lives.
“I feel like that’s where we’re really making that connection for students with the Greater Bank Finance Academy – we’re showing them that they can apply what they’re learning in the classroom to their real lives after leaving school.”
Covering essential topics such as evolving financial behaviours, saving strategies, debt management, and scam prevention, the course offers both in-person and online options to accommodate various school needs.
Greater Bank Chief Distribution Offer, Emma Brokate, emphasised the importance of the initiative.
“Greater Bank’s commitment to rolling out this program across the Hunter region reflects our belief in its significant benefits. Financial literacy isn’t just about managing money, it’s about empowering individuals to make informed decisions that enhance their financial stability and wellbeing,” said Ms Brokate.
“We are immensely proud that since 2019, the Greater Finance Academy has been delivered on-site to over 4,500 high school students from 126 classrooms across the Hunter, Central Coast and Newcastle regions.”
The outreach program covers a wide range of financial topics. Students learn about budgeting, saving, planning for the future, and understanding financial products like credit cards and loans.
The program also addresses modern financial trends, giving students a comprehensive understanding of the financial world they will navigate.
Dean of the University of Newcastle Business School, Professor James Skinner, highlighted the partnership’s benefits.
“Our collaboration with Greater Bank is built on a shared commitment to education and community engagement,” Professor Skinner said.
“We are proud to enhance the financial literacy in our communities and offer our students practical experiences that prepare them for the future. The program not only benefits high school students but also provides our university students, who act as ambassadors, with valuable experience to ensure they enter the workforce job ready.”
St Pius X High School, Newcastle Grammar, Hunter Christian College and Hunter Aspect School are among local high schools already signed up for the 2024 program – with remaining spots for 2024 and 2025 currently open.
Schools interested in participating in the Greater Bank Finance Academy can visit www.greater.com.au/uon to get in touch. The program is designed to be inclusive and accessible, ensuring that students from various backgrounds and regions can benefit.
