Pupils to create real businesses

Graham’s bakery approached Young Enterprise NI to utilise their programs that bring together companies and classrooms, encouraging students to be creative and begin to develop entrepreneurial qualities at a young age.

Grahams are running the QuickStart Programme, supported by Ulster Bank, which sees Year 11 students develop a marketable cake product and business plan under the guidance of Tim Graham over the course of 8-10 weeks.

The class will be split into two companies and each will have the opportunity to compete for sales with their branded bakes in the local area, stores and online.

The programme culminates with the students pitching their business to a panel of top Northern Irish businesspeople who will decide upon to the top QuickStart company.

Cathy Morrison, Senior Development Manager at Young Enterprise Northern Ireland, said: “Quick Start is a fantastic way for the students to gain first-hand experience of how business works.

“Over the year they will prepare a business plan and design, produce and market their product.

“They will also be expected to present a report and business accounts.

“We were very excited when Grahams Bakery approached us about this program, and all at Young Enterprise wish the two teams every success with their businesses.”

Grahams Bakery, established in May Graham’s kitchen in 1956, has been in Dromore for 60 years.

It is now managed by the third generation - granddaughters Esther and Lois and grandson Tim.

Young Enterprise NI is a charity and is principally funded by the Department of Education.

For more information, including volunteering and fundraising opportunities please visit www.yeni.co.uk.