BP Business Challenge
The BP Business Challenge is a unique three-day learning programme, run by the Young Enterprise Scheme (YES), which introduces students to the world of business in a fun and engaging way.
The programme was held in November at Tai Poutini Polytechnic in Greymouth. Support from DWC ensured Year 10 and 11 students from secondary schools across the West Coast could participate in the event.
The BP Business Challenge finished on a high note with mixed-school teams coming up with their own concept, developing it, and pitching their business to five judges.
Students at the event had a great experience. Jessica Boyd said: "It was really fun and enjoyable. I got to learn lots of new skills that I will use in the future”, while fellow student Ella Beirne said she’d never done anything like it before and it taught her things she would never have found elsewhere. Prakriti Dhakal said: "I liked how the facilitators were supportive. They found a good balance between letting us work and teaching us during the day."
Head of YES Liz Pittman says the West Coast event was a true testament to the power of community support.
“Thanks to TPP and Development West Coast, students from Buller High School, Greymouth High School, John Paul II High School, and South Westland Area School were able to attend the event. It was so fun to see the students’ energy and creativity, not to mention their Coaster pride!”
