THE bell hasn’t rung yet to signal the start of the new school year, but National Commercial Bank Jamaica (NCB) is setting the tone for a stress-free start for parents and students.

Close to 700 people recently gathered at NCB’s St Ann’s Bay branch for its Sum’n Nice fi Dem Future back-to-school fair.

“The back-to-school season can be one of the busiest and most expensive times for families,” said Kaysia Vaughan, head of group marketing and communications at NCB.

“These fairs are our way of easing the pressure, giving parents access to resources, good deals, and a little extra fun for the little ones. It’s part of our wider commitment to building a better Jamaica by supporting families and strengthening communities,” added Vaughn.

It was a high-energy day, comprising dance-offs, quizzes, and colouring contests, with radio personality Jennifer “Jenny Jenny” Small bringing her trademark flair behind the microphone.

Parents, teachers, and children walked away with book vouchers, school bags, and more. Among the happy recipients was 13-year-old St Hilda’s High School student Ashanti Robb, who received a $6,000 voucher to kick-start her savings with an NCB SMART account.

“It’s nice knowing there’s already money in my account. I’m ready to start saving,” declared Robb.

For Nickeisha Burrel, mother to a bubbly seven-year-old, Janele Bryan, the event was a lifesaver.

“Today was really fun and helpful. I got a few things sorted for school, did the health checks, and watched the kids in the dance competition. I feel more ready now for my daughter to start school,” said Burrel.

In the meantime, Michelle Francis Ingram, a mathematics teacher at Marcus Garvey Technical High School, described the day as a boost for the community.

“The fair was fantastic, and the giveaways were really appreciated. A lot of parents came with their book lists, so the book grant prizes will really help them get what they need for the new school year,” Francis said.

Youngsters, including four-year-old Tahjari Taffi, benefited from the free haircuts provided by Mark Thomas, owner of StarsCut Barbershop in St Ann’s Bay.

Parents also supported long-standing local businesses like Direct Books Stationery, where owner local Tariq Dacosta, offered special discounts on schoolbooks.

While some parents were busy ticking items off their back-to-school lists, children enjoyed NCB’s Kids’ Zone with balloon animals and face painting from Recondo ‘Too Sweet the Clown.’

Parents and NCB team members also joined the fun, playing tic-tac-toe, bean bag toss, and football with the kids.

All roads lead to Manchester on Friday for the final leg of NCB’s Sum’n Nice fi Dem Future back-to-school fair at the Mandeville branch, running from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Families can enjoy free health checks, fun activities for kids, and special back-to-school support in one place.