STUDENTS at the John Masefield High School have been receiving masterclasses in business excellence.

On Friday January 16, Year 9 students were given the chance to learn about financial management as part of the JMHS Lecture Society programme.

Deputy headteacher, Andy Collard said: "Dave Beats and Colin Cooper, both experienced national Business Managers from Santander, spent an hour with students giving an engaging and challenging lesson centred on understanding money matters and financial responsibility.

"The students discussed and explored key issues such as debt, inflation and savings using a programme that has been developed in partnership between Santander and the Citizenship Foundation, an independent education and participation charity that aims to encourage and enable individuals to engage in democratic society."

Mr Collard added: "Both Dave and Colin were thoroughly impressed by the enthusiasm and manners of the students, their willingness to explore new ideas in debating some demanding concepts and the excellent level of knowledge and awareness shown by the students. The interactive session was thoroughly enjoyed by the students and was a great opportunity for them to develop their life skills.

'We are incredibly grateful to Dave and Colin for giving up their time to come into school. The session was a fantastic opportunity for students to learn from industry experts and they took many valuable lessons away. This was the first part in a series of collaborative events with Santander and we are very much looking forward to developing this future partnership."