Budding entrepreneurs wow judges at regional awards

Students from Archbishop Blanch School are enjoying success after winning awards for Best Sales and Excellence in Retail at the North West Young Enterprise Awards.

On Thursday 18 June, the school’s enterprise team, Aptitude, competed against other schools in the region to win the title of Company of the Year.

The North West Young Enterprise Awards, which is judged by panel of esteemed business professionals, recognises and encourages entrepreneurial spark in young people.

Hopefuls from schools across Merseyside, Cheshire and Lancashire gathered at the sparkling awards event at Barclay’s Technology Centre in Knutsford to present their business ideas and celebrate their achievements.

Aptitude is made up of five ambitious sixth formers from Archbishop Blanch School who each fulfil different business roles.

With an exhibition stand set up to showcase their product, a personalised drinking cup, the girls answered questions from discerning judges.

Judged on all aspects of the product creation, they gave a presentation detailing the design and manufacturing process as well as their financial projections and marketing strategies.

During the year, Aptitude has received the valuable support of business adviser, Clare Molyneux, who has mentored the girls and brought a wealth of business knowledge and expertise to the team.

The cups have proven so popular at Archbishop Blanch that the team are now promoting the product externally and targeting local businesses.

Pauline Addy, applied learning manager, says: “I am thrilled and filled with pride to see that the hard work and dedication of our girls has been recognised at the regional finals.

“The positive comments made by the judges are testament to their natural entrepreneurial flair and I’m sure the team will go from strength to strength as they continue their studies. Next stop Dragon’s Den!”