Tomorrow's Managers TODAY

In October, students from Birchwood High School took their first steps into the business world through an industry event entitled "Tomorrow’s Managers Today".

The scheme put students into real life situations where they were responsible for the manufacture, marketing and selling of cardboard vehicles.

The vans had to be produced to strict contract deadlines and quality control standards and the companies were responsible for evolving their own way of managing their businesses.

The school hall saw a day of frenzied activity as rival "companies" made their vans, and tried to sell them to the dealers, some of who were definitely dodgy! Companies had to produce business plans and complete profit & loss accounts, which were scrutinised by experts at the end of each period. 'Wobblers' such as strikes and floods were thrown in for good measure and companies who did not comply with Health & Safety procedures were heavily penalised!

To assist them in this process a number of volunteers from local businesses gave up their time to work with the students. Representatives from Boots, McDonald’s, Warrington Wolves, Holiday Inn, Midas Touch, Army and Priestley College aided and abetted the proceedings as either business consultants or dealers working with team members to help them get the most out of the day. School staff and Priestley College students were also on hand to ensure the day ran smoothly.

If you would like to find out more about Industry Days within your business, please contact the Education Business Plus Project Development Team by email or telephone us on 01606 305210.