New Britain High School offers the Academy of Business and Finance as a choice for students who want to pursue a career in the global market.  By developing the skills, mindsets, and behaviors of business professionals, we strive to motivate and prepare students for future excellence.  Careers in the business field include but are not limited to: financial adviser, investment banker, advertising manager, entrepreneur, social media manager, human relations manager, travel agent, event organizer, software developer, cybersecurity specialist, IT support technician, spa manager, executive chef, restaurateur, and many more. These fields offer lucrative wages and benefits, leading to a high quality of life.

 

There are five pathways within the Academy of Business and Finance; Marketing, Management, Accounting/Finance, Computer Science, and Hospitality/Tourism.  Each pathway consists of a series of sequential courses designed to progressively challenge and prepare students for success in their field of choice.  Students also participate in work-based learning experiences including guest speakers, college open house days in the high school, workshops such as Personal Banking, HRA/ VITA training, various job shadows, career fairs, and college visits. Internship credit is available for students upon the completion of two Academy courses. Successful internship credit is determined by the Work-Based Learning Coordinator and includes completion of 120 working hours and a satisfactory evaluation by the internship supervisor, as well as a completed student reflection of the pathway.

 

Additionally, college articulation or dual credit is available through CT State Community College as well as some universities. NAFTrack certification is awarded to students in the Academy of Business and Finance who complete all requirements of the pathway including culminating projects, passing grades in four Academy courses, and an internship requirement. This certification is an employability credential and gives students a competitive edge when interviewing for jobs with NAF business partners.

 

Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) is an active student organization that promotes leadership and provides additional networking relationships with businesses.  All Academy of Finance students are encouraged to become involved in FBLA.