As part of the post-16 program and Business Studies AVCE course, we run a very successful Young Enterprise initiative. Each company is supported by a local business adviser who gives freely of their time to guide the achievers in the running of their business. We have been supported by advisers from the Halifax and HSBC (Pudsey branch) for the last few years.
We have won a number of competitions and have been nominated for prizes in a variety of categories, including 'Best Company Presentation'. We have been runners- up for the 'Achiever of the Year' award, and have won 'Best Company Report', 'Best Display Stand' and the Marketing award.
Young Enterprise involves
students running a company for nine months, assuming the role of a Director
of the company and taking responsibility for the company finance. They
have to sell shares to raise capital, arrange for the production of their
product or service and look at the different ways to market it.
They have the opportunity to sit an NVQ level 2 exam (equivalent to 4
GCSEs) at the end of the trading period.
This offers students a real opportunity to gain valuable experience, not only in running a company, but also in working alongside professional business people.
In 2004 we had three
companies, selling school stationery, jewellry, candle holders, as well
as running events in school such as a school disco and talent evening.
In 2004 we also had the largest number of achievers sitting the Young
Enterprise NVQ Level 2 exam, with all students passing, including one
distinction and nine credits.