Junior Achievement uses hands-on experiences to help young people understand the economics of life. In partnership with business and educators, Junior Achievement brings the real world to students, opening their minds to their potential. Primary Programmes are six weeks in duration. The business volunteer visits the classroom once a week for six weeks and teaches a structured programme. Each lesson is hands-on and activity based. The teacher supports the business volunteer throughout the programme. The Secondary Programmes are six to ten weeks in duration. Both business volunteers and teachers are invited to a half-day training seminar before the programme commences. The training covers classroom management, teaching techniques and each module of the programme. It also gives the business volunteer and the teacher a chance to meet to discuss the class and arrange a time to visit each week that suits both parties. Two safety modules were developed. The ‘Our Nation’ programme is taught to 5th year classes in over 100 primary schools. This introduces basic business concepts including health and safety to young students. The lessons adopt a range of learning methods including role-plays, posters, games and quizzes. The ‘Company Programme’ is taught to Transition Year students in about 50 schools.
Level of Education: Preschool, School
Lead Organisation: Health and Safety Authority (HSA)
