Sale pupils star in 'Fairytale Money Troubles' as Manchester Credit Union's roadshow visits

Year five children at Lime Tree Primary Academy in Sale are now smart with money, thanks to a visit from Manchester Credit Union’s school roadshow.

Working with creative education partner Altru, Manchester Credit Union delivered its ‘Bee Smart with Money’ roadshow which uses interactive drama experiences to boost children’s financial literacy and confidence in managing money.

Rapunzel, the Three Little Pigs, Thumbelina and an unscrupulous loan shark were just some of the characters the children brought to life in their production, 'Fairytale Money Troubles'. Throughout the day, pupils explored the importance of talking about money, choosing responsible lenders and saving for a rainy day, before performing their show to proud parents.

Manchester Credit Union – a financial co-operative that has supported Greater Manchester’s savers and borrowers for more than 30 years – launched the Bee Smart with Money roadshow in 2024 to give back to the communities it serves. So far, the initiative has reached hundreds of children across Greater Manchester as part of its mission to create a region of savvy savers.

Mandy Wilcock, CEO of Manchester Credit Union, said: “We worked with 60 children at Lime Tree Primary Academy and they were all bright, engaged and full of enthusiasm. They really understood the message behind the play, and we’re confident they’ll take what they’ve learned with them as they grow. Children’s relationships with money start early, as young as seven, so it’s vital we give them the tools and confidence to build positive, healthy habits early on.”

Mrs Donlon, teacher at Lime Tree Primary Academy School, said: “Our students really threw themselves into the roadshow and had a fabulous time. They loved the characters and the costumes and put on a great show for parents. Financial literacy is such an important life skill, and it was brilliant to see them learning how to make smart money choices in such a fun way.”

Mandy added: “We’re deeply invested in helping the communities we serve – not just through our financial services, but by supporting the next generation. Programmes like this make financial education accessible to all.”

Schools interested in taking part should email info@manchestercreditunion.co.uk to find out more.