Last October all of the Y9 school were given the opportunity to participate in The Big Challenge a borough wide competition that challenged students to start their own business to sell a product or service. The Y9 students applied and were filtered down into the best ideas for entry. There were 7 teams initially and all were supported by the Careers and Enterprise Team as well as external business mentors to develop their business.
The teams were:
Body and Mind (BAM) – Beth, Alicia and Molly – Wellbeing beauty products
The Bare Face Company – Millie, Louise, Charlotte and Maria – Skincare products
TotesForU – Alice – Personalised Tote bags
We’ve Got Your Pack – Casey, Jack, Adam, henry and Connor – Customised Bags – Pencil cases to pet treat bags
Bakeology of Barnsley – Chloe and Alice – Low Calorie Bakes and Vegan Cakes
Lux Sweets and Bakes – Amelia, Jude, Ella, Maryam and Shanie – Cookies, Cakes and Sweets
Glitz and Glam – Saskia – Hair and Hand Jewellery
These teams developed their products – some borrowed money, some had assistance with materials, but all built their products up ready for the first big opportunity for selling and that was the Barnsley Markets on 15th December. On a cold Saturday before Christmas all teams set up their stalls and sold to the public for the first time. The business was brisk, and they worked hard all day. Following this throughout the early part of 2019 they continued to develop their products and then to write up reports to present to the judges. Once submitted the teams with the best report were invited to present to a Dragons Den. It was a long project that required real determination, motivation and initiative to succeed.
80 Teams from across the primary and secondary sector in Barnsley entered and 20 were chosen to go forward to Dragons Den of which 2 teams from Horizon were chosen. Body and Mind and TotesForU both impressed and last week were invited to the celebration event. It was a really good learning journey for all involved but in the end only one team across the borough could take the prize. We are really proud to say that the BAM Team were the overall winners and will be jetting off to Barcelona as their prize. What a fantastic competition and one that really helps students develop so many skills as well as find out about their strengths and push their boundaries. Well done to Alice, Beth, Alicia and Molly for your fantastic entries and continuing the winning tradition at Horizon
