Empowering young people and the crucial role of financial literacy

Student Joel Davies argues why improving financial literacy is critical to both individual success – and the success of the whole country.

Money makes the world go round, but when it comes to understanding how it works, many young people are still left in the dark.

Schools might teach you algebra, history, or how plants make food from the sun, but they often skip over something just as vital: how to manage your money.

And let’s be real, knowing how to handle your cash is just as important as knowing how to pass exams.

Financial literacy isn’t just about knowing how to save a few quid. It’s about understanding the bigger picture, how money works, how to make it work for you, and how to avoid getting into sticky situations.

With the rise of easy credit, buy-now-pay-later schemes, and the lure of social media influencers flaunting their lavish lifestyles, young people are more exposed to financial risk than ever. This makes financial education not just important, but essential.

Let’s start with the facts. The Money and Pensions service reported last year that only a third (33%) of children recall learning about money in school and finding it useful. In the UK, where credit is so easily accessible, this is a worrying trend.

Without this knowledge, young people are at risk of making poor financial decisions that could haunt them for years to come. The problem is also about confidence.

Many young people feel overwhelmed by financial products and jargon, which can lead to avoidance. This is why it’s crucial for financial literacy to be taught early and in a way that’s relatable and easy to understand.

Schools have a massive role to play in closing the financial literacy gap. While some schools do offer personal finance classes, they’re often optional or only cover the basics. This isn’t enough.

Financial education should be as integral to the curriculum as Maths or English. What’s the point in knowing how to calculate the area of a circle if you can’t calculate the interest on your student loan?

Teaching it in schools isn’t just about equipping students with the skills to budget or save. It’s about giving them the tools to navigate the real world they’re about to enter so they are prepared to make informed decisions that will affect their financial future.

While schools are vital, parents and guardians also play a crucial role in teaching financial literacy. Young people often learn their money habits from home, whether it’s how to save, spend, or manage debt.

If parents aren’t confident with their own finances, this can be passed down to their kids. This is why it’s so important for parents to educate themselves and have open conversations about money with their children.

But let’s face it, not everyone has parents who are financial whizzes. This is where online resources can step in to fill the gap. There are plenty of tools available that can help young people learn about money in a way that’s engaging and easy to understand.

From budgeting apps such as YNAB (You Need a Budget) to online courses like some at The Open University, there’s no shortage of resources out there.

We’re living in a digital age, and that comes with its own set of financial challenges. With the rise of cryptocurrency, online trading platforms, and digital banking, the financial landscape is changing fast.

While these innovations bring new opportunities, they also come with risks. For young people, who are often early adopters of new technology, understanding these risks is crucial.

Financial literacy is about understanding how to protect yourself online, avoid scams, and make informed decisions in a world where money is increasingly digital. This makes financial education more relevant than ever.

Investing in it isn’t just about preventing young people from making mistakes, it’s about setting them up for success. When young people understand how money works, they’re more likely to make smart financial decisions that lead to long-term financial stability. This can have a huge impact on their quality of life, from reducing stress to giving them the freedom to pursue their dreams without the burden of debt.

Financial literacy also contributes to a healthier economy. When individuals are financially savvy, they’re more likely to invest, save, and spend wisely, which benefits everyone. 

In fact, a recent study from business group CBI found that prioritising financial education could add nearly £7 billion to the UK economy each year. In this way, financial education is both a personal issue and a societal one.

In a world where financial decisions are becoming increasingly complicated, the need for financial literacy among young people has never been greater.

Schools, parents, and the wider community all have a role to play in ensuring the next generation is financially savvy. By making it a priority, we can empower young people to take control of their financial futures and avoid the pitfalls that so many fall into.

Photo by Max Fischer