Matthew Mezza was among the students who took part in a money management workshop run by Barnado's.
Students were given advice on financial planning when they took part in a money management workshop.
The Making the Most of Your Money event run by children’s charity Barnardo’s was held at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL) on 30 November.
The programme included a wide range of activities, including calculating finances, spending priorities and budgeting, wants and needs, costs of living and bills, credit cards and loans as well as payslips and wages.
Plumbing student Matthew Mezza, 18, said: “I learnt a lot. The amount of tax you pay is unreal, and once you pay for your rent there’s not much left to pay the bills.
“It made me realise I need a good job to provide for myself, and support a family if I have one.”
Charlie Auburn, 17, who is also studying plumbing, added: “It was a real insight and surprising how easily your spending can become more than your income.
“It was good to know what you actually have to pay for, the amount things cost and what can happen if don’t pay up.”
Barnado’s services help children in poverty, support young carers and help families looking to foster or adopt a child as well as providing education workshops.
John Fisher, Project Manager at Barnardo’s, said: “Young people don’t really get any financial education in school, so we wanted to catch them before they make major choices in their lives whether they are going to work or university .
“We want to ensure they are well prepared and able to support themselves through good money management and get a better start financially.”
Anthony Robinson, Quality and Learner Experience Manager at CONEL, said: “Being able to manage money and make the most of it is an invaluable life skill, and can help set your students up for a happier more fulfilled life.
“It can also help them to achieve their goals and aspirations, and feel more in control of whatever life throws at them.”