'We're in business is the second module in the Moneysense programme and is aimed at 11-16s. The version of the module aimed at 11-14s includes a different version of the brief and quiz in Topic 1, and doesn't include Topic 7. Younger or less able students aged 14-16 could work through this version instead of the one aimed at their age group.
'We're in business requires students aged 11-16 to work in small groups to set up and run a business. The module develops team work, communication, problem solving and other key skills'
'We're in business has been designed primarily to support teaching in Business and Enterprise Education. The students work in teams to a specific brief, deadline and budget. They are asked to imagine that they are a small catering company about to open a new coffee shop. The teams work towards a final presentation which explains their plans for the coffee shop launch and includes costs, marketing ideas and menus.
'If available, try to book a room with an interactive whiteboard and enough computers for the students to work through the interactive version of the module. There are four roles to fulfil, with one person taking on each of the roles, however this can also be done in bigger groups by doubling up on the role, although It is best to have just one Project Manager per group.
'A video clip will provide students with the real account of a business person who recently opened a coffee shop. They learn how he got started, how he managed to raise the money and what sorts of things he needed to discuss with his bank, including the outline of a business plan.'
'In Topic 1, Grand opening, team members have their first meeting to investigate the details of food, prices, marketing and promotional ideas. They decide upon a name for their coffee shop and whether or not to give it a theme.
Topic 2, 3, 4 and 5 explore each role in turn: the Project Manager, the Catering Consultant, the Finance Officer, the Marketing Executive, and their corresponding tasks and responsibilities.
Students are provided with checklists, costing spreadsheets, menu spreadsheets and a marketing planner tool. Each team member will require about 5 minutes to understand their brief and then approximately 40 minutes to complete their tasks.
'The students bring together their ideas to make a presentation to convince their financial backers that they are on track to give their new coffee shop a really good launch event. This can include PowerPoint slides. A sheet is provided to help you score the presentations.'
'Topic 7, Planning ahead is aimed more specifically at 14-16s. It shows a
discussion between a coffee shop manager and her Business manager at the
bank. It gives the students an idea of what might be included in a business
plan. Students are then given a budget to manage and potential scenarios to
work through.
'Comprehensive teachers' notes are provided detailing lesson plans,
activities and glossary, as well as including curriculum links for England,
Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. They also include key skills, activity
sheets and print resources. Detailed timings are included on each topic.
You will need to register to access the teacher's notes area of the website.'