Prepping for the world of work

Scores of young people who are preparing themselves for the world of work attended a special learning event linked to the county’s new custom-built Business and Intellectual Property Centre (BIPC) at Oxfordshire County Council on Tuesday 3 May.

Seventy-five students came from 14 schools all over the county and showcased all they had experienced and learned from taking part in an enterprise start-up programme led by Young Enterprise. This national organisation aims to give young people the life skills, knowledge and confidence to allow them to succeed in the world of work.

Ryan Johnson, Oxfordshire County Council’s Engagement Manager for the Business & Intellectual Property Centre, said: “This was a great event for the county council to host, introducing young people and schools to a local democracy venue while also promoting all of the enterprising support that is available to them from the BIPC.

“The teams were very impressive with all that they had achieved, showing they could prepare and submit business reports, give presentations and be interviewed. I’m confident many will go on to create thriving businesses and have a real impact in the county. The event is a great example of how the new centre will support the ambitions of local young people, giving them the skills and confidence to start and grow their own business.”

Jackie Kelly, Area Co-ordinator for Young Enterprise, added: “A huge thank you to Oxfordshire County Council for supporting this end of year showcase. The prestigious and inspiring venue helped to amplify the experience and achievement of these hard-working students from Oxfordshire.”

The BIPC offers many youth enterprise opportunities and activities, where anyone can access one to one support or workshops to support their business start-up ideas.

For more information on the BIPC, visit the centre on the second floor of Oxfordshire County Library or go online at oxfordshire.gov.uk/bipc