Chartered Banker Institute and EY Foundation - Smart Futures Programme ‘Supporting the success of our bankers of the future’
Chartered Banker Institute and the EY Foundation are celebrating another successful Smart Futures programme for young people aged between 16-18.
During the Easter school holidays 27 young people took part in the Chartered Banker Institute and EY Foundation, Smart Futures programme that challenges young people between the ages of 16-18 to take part in two weeks of activities, including interview and communication skills, work experience and a Dragons’ Den style challenge, designed to build confidence and provide an insight into the banking industry. The challenge was based on sustainability and the ideas/presentations were unique, with the winning team developing a fun and most viable concept.
Each student has an opportunity to develop their employability skills, build on their confidence and meet with professionals from all sectors within banking, including CEO’s, who have been impressed by their unique contributions. The continued mentoring support has also proven invaluable to their future career paths.
A typical comment from one student taking part was that ‘Over the two weeks, I have had a great time, it was eye opening into the various positions in a bank and it has increased my confidence significantly.’
Another student praised the programme, saying ‘I have been given various opportunities to reflect on things such as my personal values, as well as improve my employability skills.’
The Programme coordinator at the Chartered Banker Institute said, ‘The highlight of the programme is our Dragons’ Den challenge, the students’ ideas and presentations were unique and fun to witness, and particularly commendable given the short timeframe they are given to pull it all together.’ The challenge was based on sustainability and the ideas/presentations were unique, with the winning team developing a fun and most viable concept for a new current account aimed at 16-18 year olds.
Chartered Banker Institute uses funds raised through the 2025 Foundation to run two programmes a year. Our aim is to change lives by opening-up opportunities to pursue a career in banking to those who would not otherwise have this opportunity or who would not consider such a career. It is a great opportunity for financial services organisations to become involved in supporting young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, helping them work as part of team, building their confidence, and consider today’s banking challenges. It also brings fresh perspectives and other benefits to participating employees.
Our goal is to continue to evolve the programme and for more organisations to become involved and experience the benefits for both their business and their employees by connecting with young people and, we hope, help them to develop a career in banking. We want to ensure the background of the students does not determine their future and we see our programme as a step in the right direction and with your support we are confident in achieving this.
To find out more about the Smart Future Programme, click here.
To find out how to support the 2025 Foundation, click here.