Good buddies create buzz in business world
ASCHOOL has scooped a special award for its inspirational business focused curriculum.
All Hallows Academy headteacher Tony Billings was presented with the trophy to recognise the school’s business rich curriculum which actively encourages pupils to think like entrepreneurs.
The school manages its own farm rearing livestock for meat, chickens for eggs – which are sold on the premises – and last year introduced a bee hive and raffling off the precious honey for profit.
They received the award from the Federation of Small Businesses – the UK’s largest support organisation for small and medium enterprises.
All Hallows’ Headteacher Tony Billings said: “It’s fantastic to be recognised by a leading business organisation and know the work we do is held in such high regard.
“It’s important pupils – the employers of tomorrow – have work place skills and those who are business minded can grow their skills.
“Our curriculum also teaches good business ethics and sustainability – this is something that’s very much at the heart of what we are trying to instil in the pupils and it’s where our farm is a great teaching tool.”
All Hallows one of the first schools in the country to seek specialism status in business in 2006.
When specialist funding was withdrawn in 2010, the school sought academy status so it could continue to deliver learning with a business focus.
It remains one of just a handful of schools nationally to teach business studies from Year 7 upwards, and now also visits local primary schools to spread the entrepreneurial message to Key Stage 2 children.
The FSB’s Regional chairman for Manchester & North Cheshire, Simon Edmondson, said: “All Hallows is doing brilliant work by encouraging youngsters to think and behave like real entrepreneurs and, ultimately, one day be successful business owners themselves.
“The school are also doing it in a fun and engaging way, and it’s quite clear to see the busi- ness rich curriculum they offer is very much enjoyed by the pupils, from Year 7 right through to sixth form.
“We need more schools like this to ensure that the UK economy has the right talent coming through for generations to come.”
He added: “All Hallows are doing a great job of encouraging an entrepreneurial mindset in pupils, and providing youngsters with the confidence to take a business idea forward. For this, they are worthy recipients of our Business Buddy Award.”