Eleven-year-old Theo from Doncaster has become an unlikely champion for financial education in schools. His journey took an illuminating turn when his work led to an invitation to Downing Street. There, he would ultimately end up connecting directly with Chancellor Rachel Reeves after she was inspired by his work on the BBC’s Politics North program. Theo has been campaigning for improved financial literacy programs in England, emphasizing the importance of teaching students about saving and managing money.
Theo’s passion for financial literacy started when he learned how to save money at eight years old. To begin with he recorded his savings in a green ledger at the local building society. This handmade approach allowed him to stay on top of his finances in real time. Eventually, he moved to a bank account, where he saves money he earns from his job on Saturdays. This early commitment to savings has inspired his dream of one day buying a house and a car.
Living with three siblings—an older brother aged 12, a sister aged 8, and a youngest brother aged 4—Theo understands the significance of financial planning. He sometimes gives his parents lessons on saving, revealing his intelligence and sensitivity about money. So his family’s Sunday lunches—especially their favorite roast dinner—always lead to conversations about how to budget, save, etc.
During his visit to Downing Street, Theo also met Chancellor Reeves. The Chancellor was incredibly impressed by Theo’s knowledge and passion for the importance of financial education. She called him “brilliant,” and noted his potential to change the future of financial literacy in our schools. The day of the meeting ended up being quite a declaration of support for the meeting, Theo’s hard work. It highlighted the essential role that youth advocacy plays in influencing educational policies.
Theo’s campaign for more robust financial education comes from a very personal place. He knows that all too often, young people leave school without learning the fundamental skills to manage their money. He’s convinced that teaching this subject from an early age will not only empower students, but better equip them to handle the financial realities they’ll face in the world. And he loves math, his favorite subject. Far from boring, this love for numbers fuels his burgeoning passion for finance. He knows how important good math skills are for budgeting and investing.
Theo’s method is direct and unconventional, evidenced by his passionate advocacy for the radical change that’s needed. He wants to encourage other youths to take up financial literacy. As an educator committed to equity, he is passionate about raising awareness and advocating for curriculum changes. This will ensure that future generations are more prepared to make smart financial decisions. His initiative highlights the need to engage children in conversations about handling money as early as possible.