Heidi Mulvey, Community Engagement Manager at Cambridge University Press (CUP), came to us looking for a board away day with a difference. CUP wanted to get involved with a community activity where their board members could use their expertise to make a difference to young people. Given that the directors represented all the skills required to run a successful business, Form the Future CIC suggested they take part in an Enterprise Day at North Cambridge Academy (NCA).
The Enterprise Day is an event from Form the Future CIC that introduces students to entrepreneurship across a variety of industries.
Teams of students from NCA were tasked with developing a new product or service, while the CUP volunteers worked with them to hone their business ideas and craft a pitch. The aim of the Enterprise Day was to get the Year 8 students (aged 12 and 13) to learn what’s involved in running a business. It was also a chance to be creative and develop skills such as teamwork, problem solving and communication. The board members from CUP acted as business mentors throughout the day, working alongside the teams of students to highlight the skills and behaviours that lead to success.
The task was fun, challenging and difficult at the same time. Overall, it was an exciting experience and we hope this happens again for the next set of Year 8’s!
Riya Ali and Baipor Yingsom
Year 8 students, North Cambridge Academy
