Local Schools Get into the World of Business

90 year six students (ten & eleven year olds) from Coombe Hill Junior School had a hugely enjoyable day  running their own companies, thanks to partial funding from Kingston Rotary Club. The students took part in a ‘SATRO Junior Business Game’ - a business simulation game, organised by SATRO, a not for profit charity who offer opportunities to enhance relationships between schools and businesses, on Thursday 20^th September.

Kingston Rotarians volunteered their services, along with several Governors and other business volunteers, offering advice and encouragement to the young entrepreneurs. Jill Evans,  a parent Governor, said: “Our governors thoroughly enjoyed working with both the children and the volunteers from other local businesses.  They gained enormous satisfaction from having the opportunity to support young people”.

As the students’ fledgling companies emerged, they produced prototypes and competed for stationery orders from the discerning buyers.  Bank accounts were opened and accountants wrestled with the intricacies of cash flow, whilst sales managers were intent on winning orders and marketing managers were busy promoting their companies.  The Game threw the students some real challenges along the way - as the businesses settled down to regular trading, they were faced with paper shortages and one off, time limited opportunities!  The students gained some valuable hands on learning with some companies forging ahead, taking a clear lead.

Later in the day, in a quest to win the best presentation award, the students prepared a short performance, outlining what they had learnt throughout the day.  Competition was tough but there wasn’t a dry eye in the house as the judges listened to the children’s journey into the business world.

The schools Headteacher, Mr Hodges said: “We are so grateful to Kingston Rotary Club for providing some of the funding for the ‘SATRO Junior Business Game’. The children had enormous fun overcoming the challenges. The Game provided a real insight into the world of business”. 

SATRO’s Senior Manager, Margaret Royle said: “This is an inspirational way for students to develop and practice skills so necessary in the workplace. Working alongside excellent role models from the business world raises the students’ self-esteem and aspirations”.