PUPILS have been helping their classmates save pocket money by running their own building society.

Children at Long Wittenham CE Primary School have trained to be cashiers and receptionists for their Junior Newbury Building Society branch and each week youngsters deposit their pennies and pounds.

Rhianna Thornton, 11, said: “It’s quite cool and it’s a good experience. We have the independence and it’s good work experience.

“I like being the cashier; it’s fun. I’d like to be a vet one day, and this is good for my maths and to help me be confident, which I’ll need to explain to people about their poorly pets.”

Headteacher Carole Dunne said: “The scheme teaches our pupils a sense of achievement and about the value of money.”

• Our top stories: