Junior Achievement launches new financial literacy programme backed by IFGL
Thursday 22 October 2026
Junior Achievement launches new financial literacy programme backed by IFGL
Manx Charity Junior Achievement, with the support of International Financial Group Limited, has launched a new financial literacy programme for Year 11 students, helping young people develop the knowledge and confidence they need as they move towards financial independence.
'It's All About Money' targets young people aged 15 to 16, at a stage when many will begin earning, managing their own money and making increasingly significant financial decisions.
The programme moves beyond simply teaching financial terminology. Students will learn how to understand a payslip, consider the real costs of renting or buying a home, recognise scams and identify theft and understand the difference between saving and investing.
A team of 80 volunteers, predominantly from business and the wider community will deliver the programme on behalf of Junior Achievement across all six high schools.
Manx Charity Junior Achievement, with the support of International Financial Group Limited, has launched a new financial literacy programme for Year 11 students, helping young people develop the knowledge and confidence they need as they move towards financial independence.
Research from the Money and Pensions Service highlights the importance of developing financial capability during adolescence, with financial skills and behaviours at around age 16 associated with financial wellbeing later in life.
A Money and Pensions Service study of 16-17 year-olds found some striking gaps in practical financial knowledge:
• 39% did not have a current account.
• 18% had no bank account at all.
• Only 41% could correctly read a payslip.
• 18% could not identify the correct balance on a bank statement.
Of those with an account, 32% had never deposited money.
Sue Cook, CEO of Junior Achievement, said: "Financial confidence is an essential life skill, yet many young people are making important financial decisions without having had the opportunity to develop the practical knowledge they need.
'It's All About Money' is about giving students the confidence to ask questions, make informed choices and understand the financial decisions they will soon be making for themselves. Having 80 volunteers involved means students will also benefit from the real-world experience and perspectives of people working in our community.
We are delighted that our three-year partnership with IFGL will make it possible for every Year 11 student to take part, with the programme having the potential to reach up to 3,000 young people."
Mariella Craig, Sustainability Analyst with IFGL, said "At IFGL, our purpose is to help people plan for the future, protect their wealth and achieve their long-term goals. That's why we're proud to support Junior Achievement's 'It's All About Money' programme, which will be delivered to Year 11 students across all six high schools on the Isle of Man.
For many 15 and 16 year-olds, this is a pivotal stage in life. They may be starting part-time work, earning their own money and making financial decisions independently for the first time. The knowledge and skills they gain now can help them make more informed choices and build positive financial habits that will benefit them in the years ahead.
Helping people grow, protect and share their wealth is at the heart of what we do. By supporting the delivery of this programme to students across the Island, we're helping ensure young people on the Isle of Man have access to practical financial education at an important point in their lives, before they begin making decisions that can have a lasting impact on their financial future."
Pictured above are students from Ballakermeen High School taking part in 'It's All About Money'.
Discover more about the work of Junior Achievement, our programmes and the impact we make in supporting 5,000 young people across the Isle of Man each year.
