Swadlincote Market welcomes youngsters' skills

Young entrepreneurs from The William Allitt School in South Derbyshire are being given the chance to run their own market stalls for free, all in the name of a good cause.

Swadlincote Market is taking part in this year’s extended Love Your Local Market celebrations, which last until Sunday, 5 June incorporating the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee bank holiday weekend.

Recognising some of the problems currently facing families and vulnerable people, the School’s Year 7 pupils have decided to raise funds in support of the South Derbyshire CVS Food Bank.

Following a ‘Dragon’s Den style’ interview with South Derbyshire Business Advice Service’s business advisor, David Richards, the impressive youngsters will be joining Swadlincote’s regular market on Friday 20 May, Tuesday 24 May and Friday 27 May.

Among their fundraising ideas they will be offering a bake sale (including vegan and gluten free options), tabletop games, a tombola or lucky dip, crafts and bath bombs. They will also be operating a drop off point for the Food Bank.

Swadlincote Market is providing stalls free of charge as part of its support for the South Derbyshire Young Enterprise Challenge.

Councillor Kevin Richards South Derbyshire District Council’s Leader, said: “Young people are key to the future of markets and by giving them the opportunity to run their own stall, this will hopefully give them a taste of what it’s like to run your own business.

“Our South Derbyshire Business Advice Service has given the youngsters top business advice to give them the best chance of developing their skills to maximise their sales.

Sam Cohen, Head of Enterprise and World Studies at William Allitt School, added: “The students are really excited about the project and contributing to making a difference to the local community.

“They are consciously working on developing their Employability Skills as they self-assess their development of leadership, teamwork, creativity, problem solving and communication skills. Each form is also incredibly competitive in how much money they can raise for the Food Bank.”

For more information about the event visit Swadlincote Market’s Facebook page or call the Market Manager Simon Wardle on 07784 033414.

17 May 2022