MoneyCompass Base School Programme

The MoneyCompass Base School Programme (Pénziránytű Bázisiskola program) is a nationwide educational initiative launched in 2021 by the MoneyCompass Foundation (Pénziránytű Foundation, a key organisor of MoneyWeek/Pénz7) in partnership with Mastercard. Its primary aim is to make modern financial education tools accessible to as many students as possible, thereby strengthening financial literacy and entrepreneurship competence among Hungarian youth. The programme provides free, practice-oriented financial awareness sessions for both primary and secondary school students, as well as professional development opportunities for teachers of member schools. By establishing “Pénzügyi Tudás Otthona” (Homes of Financial Knowledge) classrooms in ten selected Base schools across the country, the programme ensures that students can acquire essential financial and entrepreneurial skills close to their place of residence, supporting their future participation in economic life.

Key Activities and Student Experience

The programme offers free interactive, experience-based learning sessions tailored to different age groups (years 7 to 12). Students participate in practical workshops covering topics such as modern money management, financial planning and budgeting, the functioning of financial institutions and the stock market, and the role of the state in the economy. These sessions are designed as engaging group experiences, ranging from escape room–style challenges to scenario-based planning exercises and detective games, where students collaborate, solve problems, and make decisions in realistic financial situations. For example, in the “Modern Money Management” module, students compete in teams to overcome obstacles related to digital payment methods, aiming to earn a “financial license.” In “Financial Planning and Budgeting,” they plan a family holiday, learning to set goals, allocate resources, and manage unexpected expenses. Such activities foster critical thinking, teamwork, initiative, and creativity. Members of the Base School Network also get access to exclusive online content beyond the wide range of freely available methodological tools available on the programme’s website and YouTube channel, including sample projects, lesson plans, online games, quizzes, mobile apps, competitions, a free accredited teacher training, a Teacher club and an e-learning portal.

Program Features and Pedagogical Principles

The Base School Programme offers free sessions in ten Base Schools, with content that can be integrated into subjects like Maths, Geography, or Civic knowledge. The pedagogical approach is rooted in experiential learning, student engagement, and differentiation: activities are adapted to the age and prior knowledge of participants, and facilitators are specially trained educators with backgrounds in economics and pedagogy. The sessions develop practical skills, self-reliance, and responsible decision-making, while also promoting values such as cooperation, fairness, and social responsibility.

Methodology and Structure The programme employs a blend of gamification, project-based learning, and digital tools to create an immersive educational environment. Sessions typically last 45 or 90 minutes and can be booked as standalone events or as part of a series. The curriculum is modular, allowing for flexibility in content and delivery, and is closely linked to real-life financial scenarios. The programme is continually updated with new content, such as the “Financial Detectives” game, which further enriches the learning experience.