When we started out on this journey we decided that after 15 years of competing in this process that we were going to be the best bank yet. This drive for success motivated our team to work harder which in turn helped us choose our specialty, Backing our Community. We visited primary schools, active retirement groups and planned fundraising events for local charities. In addition to this we decided to collaborate with the upcoming European Capital of Culture, Galway 2020.
In total we obtained over €1300 worth of prizes. We used the prizes to host mystery themed competitions to create an atmosphere of excitement around our bank. In addition to this we designed our own discount cards for our customers to use and to boost sign ups. We maintained various social media accounts to promote our bank including Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter and Facebook. Social media allowed us to communicate with our customers effectively. Collectively we gained over 1500 followers all together. We hope to leave a legacy that outlasts this competition!
In March we competed in the regional final in Athlone. We made many new friends including Mary and John. We really enjoyed the day and were delighted to be chosen to compete in the National Finals.
We continued working hard over the next few months coming up to the national finals. We held bake sales, signed up customers in our hub and gave away many Easter eggs.
We travelled up to Dublin for the National finals in May. We visited the AIB Lab in Dundrum, learning so much about the future of banking. On the following day the National Final was held in the RDS in Dublin with 48 other teams competing. It was a huge event with many interesting zones and activities. After presenting in the semi-finals we were put forward as one of the top 6 teams who would have to present on the main stage. We presented on main stage in front of over 600 people. It was nerve wracking but worth it in the end. We were all so proud as a team of how we presented and handled questions from judges. While the judges deliberated, there was an excellent performance by Brooka Brass Band on the main stage.
After a tense 10 minutes, we were delighted to hear that we had been awarded third place out of over 200 teams nationwide!!! We were so proud to bring back €2000 for our school. Overall taking part in the Build a Bank competition has been an amazing experience for all of our team. We have learnt so many new skills and worked so well together as a group. We would like to thank Mrs. Biggins and Mariese Murphy for always encouraging us throughout the year and giving us such wonderful time!!!