There was a fantastic display of professionalism and entrepreneurial skills earlier this month when the Shropshire and Staffordshire Company of the Year awards took place.
Teresa Fisher explains to A Little Bit of Stone:
The Young Enterprise company programme is an initiative aimed at nurturing entrepreneurial skills among young people. Secondary school students are provided with the opportunity to start and run their business either as part of their studies or in addition to them.
Participants form teams at the start of the academic year, create their own company and develop a product or service from concept to market.
Throughout the process, they learn key aspects of business operations, such as finance, marketing, sales, and teamwork. Mentors from the business community often support these teams by offering guidance and expertise.
Towards the end of the academic year, the teams engage in a ‘Dragons Den’ style competition. This involves submitting a comprehensive business plan, participating in a panel interview and delivering a presentation in front of a packed audience held this year at Alleynes Academy in Stone. Various awards were up for grabs, including county champions.
This year, the participating schools for Shropshire and Staffordshire were:
- Newport Girls High School
- Alleynes Academy
- John Taylor Free School
- Deferrers Academy
- Sir Thomas More Catholic Academy
- South Staffordshire College
It was a closely fought contest, with ‘Carabling’ from Newport Girls High School emerging as the winner. As the Champions, they will now represent the county at the regional finals later this month.
Overall, the young enterprise company programme equips young people with essential skills and experiences that prepare them for success in the business world and beyond. It fosters innovation, teamwork and personal development, empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs and socially conscious leaders.
The experience is enhanced by volunteers – special thanks to our judges :
- Rob Longmore – HR Director Leek Building Society
- Kate Khalifa – Studio Manager and Graphic Designer PlinkFizz
- John Fichett – Trustee and Non-Exec Director
- Steve Cranston – Director Lilac Howell
- Emily DeJesus – Producer and Editor Lilac Howell
Plus, all the people who came from the business community to show their support and admiration for the teams.
if you are interested in volunteering your time in businesses with Britain’s leading educational charity, please contact Teresa.fisher@y-e.org.uk
If you are a school ( teacher, governor etc ) and would like to take part next year, please get in touch Teresa.fisher@y-e.org.uk
