Press Releases

The 9 and 10 year old pupils from Pentre Graig, Craigfelen and Clase primary schools have been working on a long-term initiative titled Communities First North East Clusters Junior Bank Project which they are undertaking to promote the importance of saving money now and in the future.

The bank has gained more than 480 savers within Swansea communities and has created a number of offshoot projects which have helped people develop new skills and brought different generations closer together. 

To help them on their journey, the pupils spent the day at the National Waterfront Museum last November as part of the annual Kids in Museum’s takeover day. Pupils got the chance to work with curatorial and gallery staff as well as representatives from The Royal Mint Museum to make a silent film and information panels about their school bank. 

This work will now officially form part of the Museum’s Money Gallery which was formally launched on Wednesday 11 February with a premiere of the film followed by an award-style presentation with Dr Kevin Clancy, director of The Royal Mint Museum and Stuart Wilson from The Royal Mint circulating coin department. 

Speaking about the day, Exhibitions Officer Jacqui Roach who has been working closely with the schools, said: “It has been a pleasure to work with the pupils to create this fantastic addition to gallery. 

“Throughout this project we have seen how the school bank has inspired the children and the local community to save and learn about managing money. Our strong working partnership with Communities First has helped us to promote the hard work of the young bankers and tell their story at the Museum." 

Speaking about the event, Will Evans, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Anti-Poverty said: “I attended the launch and it was great to hear how these children have been working with staff from the National Waterfront Museum, the Royal Mint and LASA, Swansea’s Credit Union as part of this exhibition. The Junior Bank has helped them develop their skills, confidence and understanding of money and money management. It has also had a positive impact on the numeracy and literacy curriculum.”