Students have increasing opportunities to take part in activities related to the world of work and enterprise and thereby to develop skills which are necessary to their future economic well-being.
Ofsted, 2006

Year 9 pupils have recently enjoyed two days of events, taking part in Enterprise Skills for the Work Place activity. The event was based in the Karslake Centre.

The aim of the days was to give pupils the opportunity to work collaboratively with their peers, people from industry and the local community on a small business project. During the sessions pupils were also encouraged to consider various career options and their upcoming GCSE option choices. This involved pupils in:

• Recognising, developing and applying their skills for enterprise and enjoyability;

• Learning about the way business operates;

• Learning from contact with personnel from different employment sectors;

• Relating their experiences to their own abilities, attributes and achievements;

• Undertaking tasks and activities set in work contexts;

• Engaging with ideas and challenges;

• Experiencing working practices.

Pupils worked throughout the day in small groups on a set challenge which involved pupils developing their communication, team building and presentation skills. The day also encouraged pupils to make informed choices and decisions relevant to the workplace.

The Business Challenge involved each team opening a restaurant on Canvey Island in time for Mothers Day, during the session pupils looked at food hygine and healthy eating, in addition to, marketing and promotions. The pupils had to elect a team leader to oversee the tasks and to support and motivate the team.

The challenge gave pupils the opportunaity to develop some key skills including, team work, communication skills, decision making, leadership skills, presentation skills, and negotiation skills.

Each member of the team was given an active role to play in the business challenge. This gave them the opportunity to gain an understanding of the key responsibilities in business as well as current challenges facing the business world today.

Different trends affecting the catering world including healthy eating was one example. Pupils had to design and market a product and advertise to a particular target group.

Working as part of a team made up of pupils outside their normal friendship circle was an opportunity to further develop communication skills which is a key development need for most young people.

Presentations were also key in preparing students for work experience as well as the business world.

Mr J Powell - Head of Enterprise

Photographs Year 9: 2009

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