Young Chamber

developing minds for developing business....

Dorset Chamber is now acting as the hub Chamber for the Young Chamber programme in the South West. The number of DCSF funded schools involved in the programme are increasing from 4 last year, to 9 this year, and we will have a maximum of 12 fully funded YCSW schools in 2009/10.

There are now 4 Young Chamber schools in Dorset, Avonbourne School who have been running since the pilot year 2007, Glenmoor School who started Summer 09, and Bournemouth School for Girls and Poole High School who are both starting in Autumn 09. 

Working with Dorset Chamber, these Young Chambers will give the pupils greater understanding of, and involvement in the world of Business & Enterprise. Updates on the activity of Young Chamber within Avonbourne School and the other schools in the South West can be found at www.youngchamber.com/.

Young Chamber is part of the governments enterprise education strategy which encourages greater enterprise capability among young people in education and requires them to ‘be creative and innovative, to take risks and manage them, and to do so with determination and drive. It's a simple idea that aims to give young people aged 11-19 a voice; in the process of business engagement so they have a greater understanding of the workplace, enterprise and future employment opportunities. It is inclusive in nature and is designed to appeal to students of all abilities. Local businesses work with these students to help provide a greater understanding of the workplace and of employment opportunities. Mind sets and attitudes can be understood and influenced positively. The outcomes can benefit both business and students and the local community too.

Employers can provide students with real understanding of the opportunities available and the skills, aptitudes and attitudes of mind that business needs. This can happen in school, on the employers premises or on projects and events within the wider community. The time involved may vary from a short input, to a project, to a much longer term commitment. Such activities might include undertaking research relevant to both students and local business, problem solving challenges set by the business community, mentoring, interview skills, business simulations …and much more!

This engagement –managed through their Chamber of Commerce can bring great benefits to the businesses themselves including an enhanced reputation within the community, improved employee morale and motivation and a better prepared potential future workforce. If your company would like to get involved or to find out more, please contact gillian.bunting@dorsetbusiness.net or visit the www.youngchamber.com.