Project Business

How does it work?

Preparing young people for the world of work is a key objective for Young Enterprise. We believe it is increasingly important for young people to gain an early understanding of the business world in order to succeed and excel in their future working lives.

Project Business is a shorter programme, run over a ten-week period; the weekly sessions are presented in-curriculum by a volunteer ' Business Partner' and supported by a 'Teacher Partner'.

Project Business gives 14/15 year olds a practical insight into economic and business life. The sessions give basic, hands-on introductions on a wide range for subjects from outlining how a market economy operates to discussing the role of advertising. Also included in the programme is a business/works visit hosted by the volunteer Business Partner.

• As a result of participating in Project Business young people:
• Discover how the British and local economy work
• Understand how business works and how wealth is created
• Experience business life in their own community
• Understand consumer rights and responsibilities
• Develop team working, communication and presentation skills
• Learn money management skills and gain an understanding of banking
• Gain an insight into the working life and career of a local business person
• Build a bridge between school and the business world
• Review the scope of potential career opportunities

The Benefits:

In taking part, students learn how their country actually works and raises the awareness of the skills, knowledge and understanding they will need in adult life, as producers, consumers, managers and as citizens and will also help them to clarify career goals.

The Business Partners are responsible for implementing the programme in a way similar to the Company Programme, and there is a close relationship with the Teacher Partner as the programme is conducted during a classroom period as part of 'PSE' - Professional and Social Education.

Project Business enables the Business Partners to enhance their personal and professional development.

Teacher Partners are able to form lasting partnerships with the business community and gain and enhance their own personal knowledge and experience of business.

At the end of the programme, there is a presentation evening, for parents, education and the local business community where each group of students demonstrate an example of their interpretation of the content of the Project Business programme.

All Students, Business Partners and Teacher Partners receive a certificate for their participation in the programme.