PUPILS from Penketh High School in Warrington set up as entrepreneurs and faced the challenge of posing as competing catering companies and bidding to cater for a social club function.
Supported with financial advice and guidance from Juliet Hardy-Wilson from NatWest, 240 Year 10 pupils divided into groups to tender for the contract, planning and designing menus, as well as the supply and serving of the food, 
before being judged on their ability to present and deliver a project on time and to budget.
The activities were part of NatWest MoneySense for Schools, a national programme set up by the bank to develop business and financial skills among young people.
Real life examples and online and interactive activities, video clips and activity sheets bring the programme to life and helped pupils learn the steps involved in setting up and running a business, including the basics of business planning and understanding the importance of marketing in running a successful business.
Juliet Hardy-Wilson, regional MoneySense coach from NatWest, said: “We’ve had a fantastic time and I have been really impressed with the creativity and business acumen the young people have shown. It’s been great to see the team work displayed by the members of the different ‘companies’ and to watch their self-confidence grow as the day went on.
“The importance of financial capability for young people cannot be underestimated as it’s essential that they are equipped with the skills and confidence required to make decisions in adult life.”
Christina Myers from the school added: “This has been a great activity, which the young people have really enjoyed. It’s very important that they gain basic money management skills and have the opportunity to develop their entrepreneurial and creative abilities.
“This activity was an extremely practical and fun way of doing this and brought alive what happens in real life.”
Pictured, left to right: Denise Wellman, Bethany Bancroft, Sophie Bailey, Amy Johnson and Christina Myers
Pupils face business challenge
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About Author
Gary Skentelbery
Experienced journalist for more than 40 years. Managing Director of magazine publishing group with three in-house titles and on-line daily newspaper for Warrington. Experienced writer, photographer, PR consultant and media expert having written for local, regional and national newspapers. Specialties: PR, media, social networking, photographer, networking, advertising, sales, media crisis management. Chair of Warrington Healthwatch Director Warrington Chamber of Commerce Patron Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace. Trustee Warrington Disability Partnership. Former Chairman of Warrington Town FC.
