The Challenge
From Lessons to Life
AIB wanted to evolve their youth engagement strategy and build on their legacy of supporting post-primary schools since 2002. The brief was to create a meaningful, skills-based programme that would support students through key life transitions, complement the curriculum, and deliver measurable impact for teachers and students alike. With the increasing emphasis on life skills across the Junior and Senior Cycle frameworks, AIB needed a programme that was relevant, practical, and scalable nationwide.
What we did
Sparking Skills, Igniting Futures
Real Nation designed and continue to deliver AIB Future Sparks, Ireland’s first brand-led, whole-school, post-primary life skills initiative. We developed an interdisciplinary framework for all year groups, collaborated with subject-specialist teachers to produce 300+ educational resources, launched Future Sparks TV with 50+ teen-focused video episodes, and implemented the AIB Future Sparks School Impact Awards recognising schools’ contributions to social, financial, and environmental impact.
We manage all aspects of the programme, including schools communications, school and teacher recruitment, content development, website administration and events.
The outcome / impact
Results That Resonate, Reach, and Reward
Since its launch in September 2021, the programme has become Ireland’s largest schools initiative, delivering measurable outcomes across reach, engagement, and recognition. AIB Future Sparks has transformed the post-primary school landscape in Ireland, offering a comprehensive, skills-based, and student-centric programme that not only aligns with curriculum objectives but actively nurtures the life skills young people need to thrive. Through continuous content development, engaging media, and recognition of schools’ efforts, Future Sparks has become a national benchmark for youth educational programmes.
School Impact Award Teacher Feedback:
• ‘This was a fantastic event, and all students and staff were blown away by the professionalism on the day. Thank you for a fantastic event that our students will remember for a very long time.’
• ‘It was one of the best run events for schools I had ever been to.’
Future Sparks Programme Feedback - Department of Education:
• ‘Unbelievable how big this programme is. It’s a credit to AIB for bringing this to schools.’ - Jennifer McKenzie – Director NCGE
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