Irish Funds Pilot: Transition Year Financial Literacy Programme

As part of our 2022 strategic plan, we committed to developing materials for a pilot Transition Year (TY) Financial Literacy Programme for delivery to 12 schools nationally in the 2022/2023 academic year. This programme requires the participation of industry volunteers to be successful. Over the coming weeks, we will be inviting expressions of interest to volunteer on this pilot programme. More details will be circulated to members at that time.

Programme Benefits

• Create a stronger financial awareness and improve financial literacy to empower individuals to make informed choices about their financial future.

• Target TY Programmes and school leavers to broaden learning outcomes for a younger, diverse population and foster a heightened awareness of the funds and asset management industry as a potential career, increasing diversity and inclusion in our industry.

Programme Details

• Six one-hour, class-based modules for TY students.

• Experiential programme combining (i) Financial Literacy (ii) Key Life Skills and (iii) bolstered by real-life examples provided by industry volunteers, accompanying the teacher and facilitator in delivering the six modules.

• The programme includes learning/content on digital finance and sustainable investing.

• Advance training will be provided to all teachers and volunteers to include facilitator packs and ‘Train the trainer’ sessions.

• The total time commitment for volunteers is expected to be 12 hours and delivery in the pilot schools will begin from January 2023.

Schools from five counties have already signed up and all 12 slots are expected to fill up.

Future Development Phases

Irish Funds will critically evaluate the pilot and feedback from the participating schools will inform future design and development phases.

Initial exploratory work has been carried out on making technical and delivery enhancements. Examples include Virtual Reality Learning, an Investment Gaming App for students and an online interactive portal for students, teachers, and facilitators.

We will also consider future member firm sponsorship model opportunities.