The Enterprise Academy is the brainchild of Dragons’ Den star Peter Jones, who had a vision to create a centre of excellence for developing enterprise skills. Peter’s vision was to shift the boardroom into the classroom, equipping the future generation of entrepreneurs with the skills and confidence to aim higher.
Solihull College is the only college in the West Midlands and surrounding region to be working with the Enterprise Academy, and as Regional Hub it will be responsible for encouraging other local learning providers to deliver the qualification in the future. The College will host regular master classes and business networking events to other colleges and proactively promote the Enterprise Academy to relevant stakeholders.
From September, the PJEA at Solihull College will give young people aged 16-19 the opportunity to study the Diploma in Enterprise and Entrepreneurship and inspire them to reach their potential. As part of this unique course, students will participate in master classes and gain expert advice from leading entrepreneurs; discover the entrepreneurial journeys of various business people; carry out work placements in different organisations; and receive guidance from industry professionals on areas such as sales, marketing and finance.
Kate Angel, Business Enterprise Manager for the PJEA, comments: “This is a really exciting time for the College. We will be giving young people the chance to study a new enterprise qualification, designed to help them realise and achieve their business dreams. As part of the course, students will work on real-life business challenges and interact with employers to prepare them for their entrepreneurial careers.”
The Diploma is delivered at two levels dependent on experience. The Level Two programme involves developing a viable business idea, creating a full business plan, and pitching to investors. The Level Three programme supports students in setting up and running a micro-business for a period of at least four months, during which time they will learn about business planning and finance, communicating with customers, and planning for future expansion, amongst other modules.
The Diploma will be delivered by the College’s team of experienced business tutors, alongside coaching and mentoring from top companies. Students will have dedicated access to the College’s new Management Centre, which includes modern and spacious teaching areas that are fully equipped with first-class resources.
For aspiring entrepreneurs wishing to find out more about the Diploma in Enterprise and Entrepreneurship, come along to the College’s Blossomfield Campus on Wednesday 17th August at 4pm to attend a PJEA Awareness Session.
Alternatively visit www.solihull.ac.uk/pjea or call 0121 678 7000 to find out more.
