PUPILS are being encouraged to learn about money management from an early age as part of a new campaign.

Ahead of financial education being added to the National Curriculum in 2014, Swindon MPs have thrown their support behind the Get Money Smart project which will provide free resources to teachers.

Every primary and secondary school in Swindon has been given teaching materials by the national charity Personal Finance Education Group to get children talking about money in the classroom.

North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson said: “I have led the campaign to secure financial education in the national curriculum, which will begin in September 2014.

“Martin Lewis, of Money Saving Expert, has offered millions of pounds to support the initiative, which will go to fund resources throughout schools.

“I feel we have a duty to equip the next generation of consumers to make informed decisions. Currently 91 per cent of people who get into financial difficulties say they wish they had known better, and that has to change.

“Financial education is a crucial building block to give young people the confidence when entering the adult world to handle their money properly.

“Parents have been hugely supportive of this campaign. We have an increasing prevalence of standing orders and complex marketing.

“As a society we need to make sure the next generation have the tools they need to deal with this.”

The new curriculum will focus on improved maths from an early age, and introduce financial lessons in secondary schools.

“This will predominantly be for secondary schools,” said Justin.

“In primary schools we will see a great emphasis on mental arithmetic, while in secondary schools it will be added to the maths and citizenship lessons.

“It will include things like calculating mobile phone contract costs. Many financial aspects are subjective, in that there is no right or wrong answer. We need to understand the process and think it through.”

South Swindon MP Robert Buckland said: “This is a great opportunity for local schools to take advantage of a fantastic campaign. This project is a fun and challenging way for young people to learn more about money and we look forward to Swindon schools once again taking the lead on such an important issue.”

Pfeg chief executive Tracey Bleakley said: “We are thrilled to have the support of Justin and Robert for this free new scheme for primary and secondary schools in North Swindon.

“I hope all local schools will seize the opportunity to use their Get Money Smart posters to bring money to life in the classroom. “This is a crucial topic that every young person should learn. Getting pupils talking about money and the financial decisions they will face in the future is a great way to start.”