Students from Newcastle College, Newcastle Sixth Form College, and Newcastle College University Centre were given a unique insight into the workings of the UK economy this week, as Sarah Breeden, Deputy Governor of the Bank of England, visited the College’s Performance Academy.
Speaking to an audience of more than 200 business, economics, and politics students, Sarah discussed the vital role the Bank of England plays in maintaining financial stability, as well as her own journey from a state school education to one of the most senior positions in British finance.
During her engaging talk, Sarah reflected on her experiences during the 2008 financial crisis and explained how the Bank works to stabilise the financial system and protect people’s everyday lives from economic shocks.
Following her presentation, students took part in an interactive Q&A session, asking thoughtful questions about the UK economy, the Bank’s decision-making processes, and career opportunities in finance.
To round off the morning, several students were invited to take part in a filmed Bank of England challenge, testing what they had learned throughout the event.
Sarah Breeden, the Bank of England’s Deputy Governor for Financial Stability, said:
“It was fabulous to have had the opportunity to speak to such an engaged group of young people about the economy and the work of the Bank of England. Engaging with the next generation about these important issues is central to our mission and our legitimacy.”
“I was very impressed with the College’s facilities and approach to teaching. The focus on real-world skills and engagement with businesses will help create the skilled workforce that the North-East (and the country) needs in the future! I look forward to seeing it in the productivity statistics soon!”
Newcastle College Assistant Principal James Edge said:
“It was a real privilege to welcome Sarah Breeden to Newcastle College. Her talk gave our students a fascinating insight into how the Bank of England shapes the financial landscape of the UK, while also showing what’s possible through hard work and education.”
“Opportunities like this inspire our students to think big about their futures, and we’re incredibly proud of how they engaged with the discussion.”
The event was part of Newcastle College’s ongoing commitment to connecting classroom learning with real-world experience, helping students understand how their studies relate to the wider world of work and national policy.