08 July 2009
Social enterprises and fairtrade initiatives developed by school children were highlighted in a showcase event recently held at Garforth Holiday Inn.
The event was organised by Education Leeds via their Enterprise Ambassador programme funded by Sharing the Success, was the annual showcase and celebration demonstrating how our local schools have been engaging with enterprise.
Around 200 delegates attended which included young people, local businesses, teachers and Education Leeds staff. "Social Enteprise Takes Off!" included presentations from Mike Southon, co-author of The Beer Mat Entrepreneur, young entrepreneur Sabirul Islam and Nick Bowen, headteacher of St Benet Biscop.
The schools collectively had created 22 social enterprises and a primary school newsroom which was made up of five schools. Prizes were awarded in seven categories for the winners for both primary and secondary schools.
Social Enterprise of the Year went to Hunslet Moor (primary) and Bruntcliffe (secondary), with Young Social Entrepreneur prizes going to Dominic Thomas (Hunslett) and Becky King (Brigshaw).
Judges on the day included O2, Leeds City Credit Union and Leeds City Council. They provided a number of positive comments about the day:
"It was an absolute pleasure and one of the most interesting projects I have ever been involved with. I was 'blown away' by some of the young people and their input, thoughts and contributions at such a young age."
"Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to attend this magnificent event. I thoroughly enjoyed myself."
Phil Cole from Leeds City Council and a member of the Sharing the Success board has negotiated with the Leeds Visitor centre at the train station to stock the arts and crafts produced by Cockburn Glassroom and St Augustine's StAKK - last year's winners. It is hoped this year's products will achieve similiar success to external audiences.
For further details on this or other enterprise activity in schools contact Christine Marsden on 0113 2883560.