BAKCYL

BAKCYL – Bankers for Financial Education (ISCED level 2) is a major nationwide educational program in Poland that connects the financial sector with schools. The project is implemented for students in grades 4–8 of primary school (ages 10–15). Its goal is to develop students’ competencies in economics, entrepreneurship, and cybersecurity through practical lessons delivered by volunteers from the banking industry. The program is designed to align with the national curriculum, complementing subjects like social studies, mathematics, and IT. Its core objective is to provide children with a practical foundation in financial literacy and safe online behavior.

Key Activities and Student Experience The central activity consists of interactive 45-minute lessons led by banking professionals. Students engage with real-world topics through modules like "Your Money" (budgeting), "The Enterprising Apple Seller" (a market simulation), "From Saving to Investing," and "Cybersecurity." Through business simulations, case studies, and interactive discussions, students develop financial responsibility, critical thinking, digital literacy, and teamwork. Key competencies include initiative, problem-solving, risk assessment, and practical financial management.

Program Features and Principles The practice is built on a unique practitioner-volunteer model, bringing real-world expertise directly into the classroom. A core principle is strict ethical neutrality: volunteers are forbidden from promoting specific products or institutions, ensuring objective and trustworthy education. The program’s uniqueness lies in its scale, operating as a broad partnership between over 120 banks and financial institutions, 400 local governments, and thousands of schools. It emphasizes accessibility by being entirely free for all participants.

Methodology and Structure The program features a modular structure of distinct lessons that schools can select based on their needs. The methodology combines expert instruction with action learning, using business simulations, gamified elements (quizzes and competitions), and problem-solving exercises. Lessons are designed to be dynamic and are delivered both in-person and online, ensuring wide accessibility. This blended approach makes complex topics like budgeting, investing, and cybersecurity understandable and engaging for young learners.Expected Outcomes and Value The practice fosters an entrepreneurial mindset, financial confidence, and a strong sense of responsibility in students. They learn to make informed financial decisions and protect themselves from online threats. For teachers, it offers a high-quality, ready-to-use educational solution delivered by external experts, enriching the curriculum and boosting student engagement without extra cost. BAKCYL stands as a powerful model of effective corporate social responsibility, demonstrating a successful synergy between the business world and the education system.