BUSINESS studies pupils in Ringwood have been demonstrating their entrepreneurial flair.

As part of their course the year 9 pupils at Ringwood School were set the challenge of launching their own business.

From Thursday, May18 to May 25, they set up stalls at lunchtime and sold everything from homemade sweet treats such as cakes, flapjacks and shortbread, through to greetings cards, face masks, jewellery, lip tints, mugs, notebooks and smoothies, to name a few. The pupils also had to master business skills such as communication and negotiation, financial management and marketing, sales and customer service. Many of the students capitalised on the current trends of ‘handmade’ and ‘homemade’ products.

More than £700 was made in revenue and the profits made, more than £240, will be equally divided between Cancer Research, Macmillan Cancer, Naomi’s House & Jack’s place and three entrepreneurs in developing countries such as Malawi and Zambia.

Ani Costello, Ringwood School subject leader for key stages 3 and 4 business studies, said: “We are very proud of our Year 9 entrepreneurs.Working in teams they came up with their own concepts and business names, decided on branding, pricing strategies, marketing techniques and delivered amazing sales pitches, all on an initial investment of £10. They have proven themselves to be real entrepreneurs.”