Pupils in the SEBD class have been working on the Young Enterprise Team Programme since January. Young Enterprise helps pupils develop the life skills, knowledge and confidence they need to succeed in the world of work and provides them with financial education. They believe that the potential of pupils is unlimited and an academic education on its own is not enough. 

All pupils within the class evaluated their own skills such as confidence, organised, motivated, communication, problem solving and perseverance and were allocated roles within a business to suit their expertise. These roles ranged from Managing Director, Finance Manager, Production, Marketing, Advertising and Events Team. 

The aim was to decide on a business idea and a product. After completing market research within school and analysing the results it was decided to launch a personalised gift business to celebrate occasions would prove beneficial. 

‘PontyPrinty’ became the name of the company with a mission statement of Want It - Say It! – Make It! The aim of the company was to make personalised items and gifts which started with a successful sales event for Valentine's Day where personalised mugs and wine glasses were produced. The business developed and expanded over the next few months when other products were introduced such as candles and hot chocolate glasses ready for Mother’s Day and Easter.  

Alongside the printing using vinal onto glasses, PontyPrinty made personalised named keychains which were successful sales amongst pupils and staff at school. 

Throughout the programme, Pontyprinty were allocated a business advisor from a Caerphilly company called Town Square. Town Square sponsored Pontyprinty and provided mentoring from a successful business entrepreneur Mandy Weston. Town Square created a website for Pontyprinty where all products could be displayed to show all the pupils efforts. 

On the 26^th April, Pontyprinty showcased their products on a Trade Stand at Coleg Y Cymoedd and presented their company in the Local Welsh Finals.  Following an action-packed day of meeting local businesses, the pupils were successful and were presented with two awards. Winner of Best Customer Services as well as the Winner of the Young Enterprise Team Programme.  

As winners of the regional event, Pontyprinty will now progress to the National all Wales Final. This is a fantastic achievement for our pupils who have shown a high level of enthusiasm and engagement and we are all extremely proud of this recognition.