5 Big Questions about money to transform financial education in schools

Just Finance Foundation has officially launched an updated version of its flagship primary school resource, 5 Big Questions about money.

Already used in hundreds of schools across the UK, the new edition is a direct response to teacher feedback and reflects the changing ways children and families experience money.

This isn’t just a refresh. It’s a commitment to improve how financial education is delivered to children from Early Years through to Year 6 – an age where their financial habits and values are beginning to form

Why it matters

Too many children leave primary school without a clear understanding of where money comes from, how it works, or how to make personal and wise decisions with it. The updated 5 Big Questions tackles this by helping children build strong foundations early — not just in maths and numeracy skills, but in confidence, values, and real-life decision-making.

JFF’s unique values-based approach ensures that financial education goes beyond counting coins. Our resources support children in developing emotional literacy, critical thinking, and future planning — all vital for long-term wellbeing.

What’s changed?

The new version of the 5 Big Questions includes:

• Stronger curriculum mapping to support teachers across all UK nations

• Digital-first resources including editable presentations and interactive whiteboard tools

• New inclusive adaptations for children in alternative provision and those with SEMH needs

• Improved emotional and safeguarding support to help children explore money-related feelings safely

• Clearer classroom delivery guidance, shaped directly by what teachers told us they needed

Laura Halloran, Head of Financial Education at Just Finance Foundation, explains:

"This update is the result of listening deeply to teachers. We wanted to ensure our training and resources truly support the reality of the classroom today — with all the complexity, creativity, and care that teaching financial education requires."

Real-world relevance

Children’s lives — and the world of money — have changed dramatically since this resource was first created. With digital payments now part of everyday life and financial pressures facing many families, schools are on the frontline of helping children understand and navigate these changes.

By supporting teachers to deliver meaningful financial education, this updated resource helps children build not just knowledge, but the confidence and values to shape their futures.

The updated 5 Big Questions is now available through the LifeSavers programme.

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