Where It All Began

The idea for starlight-byte emerged from a simple observation: young people were leaving school without fundamental money management skills. Conversations with parents across Glasgow revealed a common concern, that their children had little understanding of budgeting, saving, or the real value of money.

Founded in 2019, we set out to fill this gap with practical, engaging financial education tailored specifically for younger age groups. What started as weekend workshops in community centres has grown into a comprehensive programme serving hundreds of families throughout Glasgow.

What Guides Us

Core principles that shape every programme we deliver

Age-Appropriate Learning

We adapt concepts to match cognitive development. Seven-year-olds explore money through games; teenagers tackle compound interest and budgeting apps.

Family Involvement

Parents play a crucial role. We provide resources and guidance so that lessons learned in our sessions continue at home.

Real-World Application

Abstract concepts become concrete through practical exercises. Children handle actual budgets, make spending decisions, and see consequences firsthand.

Positive Money Attitudes

Beyond mechanics, we address emotions around money. Children learn that financial struggles are manageable and that smart choices lead to security.

Our Educational Philosophy

Traditional financial education often fails because it treats money as purely mathematical. We take a different approach, recognising that financial behaviour is deeply emotional and habitual.

Every session includes three elements: understanding (why this matters), skill-building (how to do it), and practice (applying knowledge in scenarios). This combination ensures that learning translates into lasting habits.

We also believe in removing shame from financial discussions. Many children absorb anxiety about money from stressed parents. Our environment normalises talking about finances openly and constructively.

See how our approach translates into specific programmes

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Meet Our Team

Experienced educators passionate about financial literacy

EH

Emma Henderson

Founder & Lead Educator

Former secondary school teacher with a background in economics. Emma developed the original curriculum and continues to lead our teen programmes.

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Marcus Campbell

Children's Programme Director

Early years specialist who designs our engaging activities for younger participants. Marcus ensures complex ideas become accessible through play.

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Fiona Kelly

Family Workshop Coordinator

With experience in family therapy and financial coaching, Fiona leads sessions that bring parents and children together around money topics.

850+ Young People Educated
240 Family Sessions Held
12 School Partners
5 Years Operating

Community Roots

We are proud to be based in Glasgow and committed to serving this community. Our programmes reflect local contexts, from managing pocket money during the school year to understanding holiday spending pressures.

Partnerships with local schools allow us to reach children who might not otherwise access financial education. We offer subsidised places for families facing financial hardship because we believe everyone deserves these skills.

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Ready to Start Your Child's Financial Journey?

Join hundreds of Glasgow families who have chosen to invest in their children's future financial wellbeing.

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