Young Entrepreneurs build a successful and sustainable future

The Young Enterprise ‘Save Our Species’ team is making great strides.  Back in 2019, the team launched their own business with social aims and objectives to highlight the endangered species in the world.  Their 2020 calendars sold out within days, much of this success came through the partnerships that the team had formed, for example with the Bank of Santander who placed a large order.

In January, the team attended an intensive training programme at Ripon Grammar School where they further developed their skills, particularly in marketing, finance and company report writing.  In February, two member of the team, Archie Forbes and Evey Taylor, attended an employability event at PwC in Newcastle to learn about the skills that major businesses require.  Competencies such as leadership, team working and communication were high on the list of essential skills for success, which fits well with the aims and objectives of Young Enterprise

In March, the team launched their second branded product, a series of animal notebooks, and the social media strategy, promoting products on Instagram.  The team now have the final hurdle of the regional competition. They must produce a four-minute video outlining their business, the roles they had all taken and the achievements they had made.  Students will then hear whether they have been selected for the national finals which take place later in the year.

Louise Butterfield from Young Enterprise, said: “Young Enterprise believes that the potential of the UK’s young people is unlimited, we motivate young people to succeed in the changing world of work by equipping them with the work skills, knowledge and confidence they need.”

Ms Mannion, Lead Teacher for Careers, added: “I am so impressed by the continued commitment that the SOS team has shown. Young Enterprise is a new venture for Richmond Sixth Form College and the Year 12 students have given it their all, and turned a profit.”

Philip Stockdale, Young Enterprise Mentor said: “Not only has this team demonstrated strong business acumen throughout, the students have successfully networked with key businesses such as HSBC, PwC and the Bank of Santander.”

Save Our Species Team: Year 12 students – Evey Taylor, Archie Forbes, Adam Hodgson, Kaelan Richards and Benjamin Richardson.