Implementation:

The programme was entirely co-produced with a Youth Advisory Group of 8 young people from across the country who helped the Unloc team develop engaging activities to explore the topics of financial literacy. The Advisory Group provided critical insights into the challenges young people from socially deprived communities currently face, and gave their opinion on the topics that mattered to them and how they would like to learn about them. This process helped create two programmes: 3-hour bootcamp sessions for school students, and shorter 90-minute masterclass sessions for college students.

The Bootcamp sessions were aimed at Year 9 and 10 students in schools, and helped them gain confidence as they explore their future careers and financial journeys. The bootcamps helped students identify alternative ways to make money, and develop concrete ideas based on their skills and passions. Through activities on budgeting and entrepreneurship,  students left with an understanding of the different phases of entrepreneurship, and how they can plan and manage their finances.

The Cash Kickstarters Masterclasses designed for college or sixth-form students helped them to gain insight into various career pathways and reflect on their own career journey. Each masterclass was attended by guest speakers who shared with the students about their own experiences and what they’ve learnt along the way. At City of Portsmouth College, Josh Robinson (founder and CEO of LMSUK) spoke about his journey as an entrepreneur, and the skills and challenges he faced while starting his company. At the session in Capital City College, Beverly Tran (Head of Social Impact at Microsoft) spoke about her journey in trying different fields before finally finding her dream job at Microsoft. These contrasting stories helped students gain insight into the different routes that they could take for their own careers.

Impact:

Students said:

“It gave me all I needed. I was looking for answers and encouragement as I want to get a job, and my plan is now to build my own company one day.”

“Made me think that there are other people out there with their own journeys and are trying different things. I learnt that it’s not always about sticking with one journey, it’s about trying different things.”

“They gave great advice, making sure everyone participated in each activity, giving time to ask questions and provide feedback. It was great to talk to everyone. 

“We learnt about things that are relevant and important to the real world.”

“It would help a lot of teens struggling to find their way.”

One teacher commented:

“The Cash Kickstarters Bootcamp was a brilliant event. Unloc were easy to communicate with in getting the event organised. On the day, Unloc staff were extremely engaging and positive to our students which in turn gave them the confidence to get involved in tasks. The content was pitched perfect to allow all students access and gain success whilst also providing challenge and new learning. A great day which we will look to do again.”