Business and Economics students from Plymouth College have been putting classroom theory in to practice with help from a leading snack food firm. Plymouth-based Burts Chips, producers of hand-cooked British potato chips, tasked the Year 10 pupils with designing a range of crisps with a Rugby World Cup theme.
Enthused by a visit to Burts’ factory, the young entrepreneurs split into small teams to work on their products. Each student ‘company’ had to prepare a plan that covered research, marketing and sales, packaging, distribution and financial forecasts.
The top three teams then had to make a short presentation to a Dragons’ Den-style panel of Burts’ directors. The students faced some probing questions but it was Blood Sweat and Tears who took the top spot. Their entertaining TV advert, professional pitch and well-managed project won over the judges.
“We really enjoyed taking part in the competition,” said George Asquith, Project Manager of Blood Sweat and Tears. “Everyone in the team had different strengths so we were able to get the best out of all of us. This has been a great way to learn about all different aspects of running a business.”
Business and Economics teacher, Aaron Summons, said: “Having the chance to take part in a real life project like this has been invaluable for the students. It has not only given them experience of business planning but also introduced them to important skills such as teamwork, leadership and public speaking. The support of Burts Chips has been fantastic and we are extremely grateful to them for their involvement in this project for the second year running.
“The competition works hand-in-glove with our Entrepreneurial Society, which has already hosted a number of top-level business gurus such as Levi Roots, Tim Martin and Chris Dawson.”
