We visit the Walsall primary school where pupils are readied for the 'modern world'
'Unlocking potential today for a brighter tomorrow' is the motto at a Walsall primary school which aims to prepare its pupils for the "modern world".
One of the ways youngsters at Barcroft Primary School in Barcroft, Willenhall, are being readied for the next chapters of their lives is by learning how to handle their finances.
They learn this at the school's 'bank', where they can swap 'currency' earned for good behaviour and attendance for prizes, taking home bigger rewards with the more 'money' they save.
Head of school Gillian Locke said: "One of our focuses of this year is to raise the children's awareness of saving and financial stability.
"Our motto is 'unlocking potential today for a brighter tomorrow' - it is having children who are ready for the modern world because it changes all the time.
"We do spend a lot on IT equipment and make sure that is really embedded into our curriculum.
"Some of the jobs you can have now, when I was younger didn't exist, and so we have got to make sure children are prepared for what is coming and we have really good facilities here to be able to do it."
Mrs Locke described Barcroft, which forms part of The Lighthouse Federation, as an "inclusive" school.
It is attended by many children who speak English as an additional language and those with additional needs. The head of school said the curriculum is adapted where needed so "children can thrive".
The school runs a provision called 'Willows' where pupils can get extra support, as well as having a sensory room.
In the middle of the school there is an intervention room housed in a large gingerbread house where pupils can work through small activities with a teaching assistant.
There is also a giant canal boat where pupils can go for support with their learning or to attend 'Lego therapy' sessions, during which they build Lego and talk through any issues they may have.
Parents also receive support from the school through its food and uniform bank.
Mrs Locke, who started in her role at Barcroft in 2022, said there is a feeling of family there.
The mum-of-one told the Express & Star: "We try and make it as positive and happy and inclusive as we possibly can so our children want to come every day.
"It is such a lovely place, you know when you walk around a school and you just know great things are happening here - you just feel it.
"When people come around they are wowed by the aesthetic but also children are working hard. You walk into every class and they are focused.
"It is just a lovely place to come, it is like a warmth. Everybody is calm, they are getting on with what they need to do.
"I always stand on the playground in the morning and children are running into school - they just love it."