Students impress at Olympics themed enterprise day

Members of the Flaming Torch Café who came up with the winning idea

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Enterprising pupils from across the borough cooked up a variety of ideas for a new catering business based at one of the 2012 Olympic venues.

They then had to pitch their tasty creations to a “dragons’ den” of local trade and industry leaders who quizzed the potential future business owners on their plans.

Over 120 students from local secondary schools took part in the day long event at Rochdale Town Hall. Organised by Rochdale Borough Council, it aimed to promote entrepreneurship in young people.

Working in teams, the Year 8 students were given statistics and information about their task, plus a set of questions to help them formalise their ideas. They then had to create marketing materials and budgets whilst considering possible competitors and pitfalls.

By completing the culinary challenge they learnt how to successfully develop a business proposal and pitch it to prospective investors. Each team had a local business person to mentor and advise them.

Mentor Kathryn Turner, from S Wellens & Sons Funeral Directors, said: “It was a really enjoyable day. The children seemed shy at first but soon got the ideas flowing. It was great for their confidence.”

As well as picking up important lessons in commerce, they also improved their communication and team working skills.

Will Powell, aged 13, from Siddal Moor Sports College, said: “I learnt how to work cooperatively with people I didn’t know before the day. You get to make real friends.”

After some impressive pitches to the panel, the eventual winners, Flaming Torch Buffet, proposed a mobile restaurant selling international foods including Chinese and Mexican cuisine.

Emma Shanks, aged 13, from St. Cuthbert’s RC High said: “It was really exciting to win. I enjoyed working with my mentor and developing our restaurant idea.”

John Peers from John Peers Hair Studio, who mentored the winning team, said: “It was a great day with superb children. It generated some excellent ideas from young people.”

Head dragon on the judging panel, Colin Meredith from Starstruck Talent agency, said: “All the groups have taken on board the challenge of creating an Olympic themed restaurant. They have all been different and have shown great maturity in coming up with ideas that would grab public imagination.”

There will be another enterprise day in November. Schools and local business people that are interested in taking part are asked to contact Carol.Hopkins@Rochdale.gov.uk for more information.