10th June 2008, Year 8 students attended ‘Business Quackers’ at the Ravensdene Lodge Hotel, Lobley Hill. The event was organised and delivered by Gateshead Education Business Links.

Students were divided and joined a ‘company’; ‘Spicy Duck Company’, ‘Bombay Duck Company’, ‘DCUK’ and ‘Rubber Duck Company’ were to name but a few of the pre-named companies.

Their task was to run a business producing origami ducks for re-sale. This involved deciding upon who was to run the company, who was in charge of finance and who were in buyer, seller and production teams. What great fun they had!!

If their overheads weren’t paid on time they were fined! What a great event – not only did they learn what is involved in running a business but also worked as a team, practising communication, negotiation and delegation to name but a few essential life skills.

All I can say is watch out Dragon’s Den!

Shirley Ann Gaut
Learning Mentor