A group of young entrepreneurs have been given a taste of running their own business after taking part in a week-long enterprise programme at The Brunel Swindon.
Twelve children aged between five and 11 joined the initiative organised by Swindon-based Little Bosses Academy, a community interest company that helps youngsters develop confidence, financial awareness and independent thinking through hands-on learning.
The programme, titled Sweet Science, challenged participants to create, market and sell their own products while learning the fundamentals of entrepreneurship.
Throughout the week, the children explored everything from product development and branding to marketing and customer service. They also learnt how to calculate ingredient costs and work out profit margins, giving them an introduction to the financial side of running a business.
The project culminated in a pop-up shop at The Brunel, where the youngsters sold the sweet treats they had created to shoppers visiting the town centre.
Helping them along the way was Barry Bear, Little Bosses Academy’s social-emotional learning mascot, who encouraged the children as they welcomed customers, handled sales and promoted their products.
Learning through real-world experience
Founder of Little Bosses Academy, Giselle Idedia, said the programme was about much more than business skills.
“The children didn’t just learn about business, they experienced what becomes possible when children are trusted with real responsibility,” she said.
“They had to think independently, make decisions, communicate with the public, solve problems and adapt in a genuine real-world environment.
“The team at The Brunel Swindon have been really supportive and on board right from the start.”
As a Community Interest Company, Little Bosses Academy reinvests profits into future programmes, with money raised from the pop-up stall helping to fund places for children who may not otherwise be able to participate.
Supporting the next generation
The Brunel Swindon said it was pleased to provide a platform for the young business owners.
A spokesperson for the shopping centre said: “We were delighted to host the Little Bosses Academy and welcome these young people to the centre.
“Seeing children as young as five run their own stall with such confidence and teamwork was fantastic.
“We’re proud to have supported them at an event which nurtures the next generation of Swindon’s entrepreneurs.”
The initiative highlights a growing interest in providing practical business and life skills to children from an early age, combining education with real-world experience in a supportive environment.
For many of the participants, it may have been their first business venture — but judging by their enthusiasm, it is unlikely to be their last.
