What young people say about EiA

To understand the impact of an EiA programme and the positive choices and changes that young people make as a result, read what the participants have to say about the experience. Below, young people from a wide range of EiA projects share their views about what they have gained from their involvement.   

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After the Maths Classroom to Boardroom Summer school at Royal Holloway in July 2008:

-    “I had so much fun, I laughed more this week than I have in the whole year!”

-    “The best part was ultimately the presentation to the board of directors.  It felt like everything had paid off, all the homesickness, conflicts and hard work.  Also the great people I have met.”

-    “It was challenging and stressful but I enjoyed releasing my passion and determination to do my very best.  The presentation in the boardroom was amazing.  I really believe I have grown as an individual and now can do anything.” 

-    “The coaches treated us with complete respect rather than being patronising.  We felt like adults and were pushed to work hard and be responsible for ourselves.” 

-    “The best parts were learning how to get along with everyone from different parts of the country.  And knowing how maths is important in business.  Thanks for giving me this once in a lifetime opportunity.”

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After the Barclays Challenge:

“We really enjoyed this challenge. It gave us the opportunity to learn more about business. We learnt about stocks and shares and money management but most of all we learned to work together as a team to produce a presentation of this calibre in a limited amount of time. These are skills that we want to use for the rest of our lives.”

After the Angel Trains Challenge:

 “I learned that you should get up there and do your best. There is no such thing as failure or losers – just try your best and you will definitely get somewhere.”

Pupils from Park View Academy School on the Enterprise Programme:

 ‘I learned that anyone can go into business as long as they have a good idea and are prepared to take risks.’

 ‘I learned that if you can’t talk to people in a proper way you don’t get customers’

Pupils from Birmingham schools Bournville Pathfinder Project undertaking challenges from the Fire Brigade, Jaguar, RAF, Childline and the National Space Centre:

 ‘I’ve learned how to plan and market a business properly.’

 ‘I learned not to crack under pressure.’

 ‘You have to stick to deadlines if you want to get anywhere.’

 ‘I’ve learned a lot about responsibility, leadership and communication skills.’

 ‘We had to sign a contract and go through business processes – you get a feel of what it’s like to be in a business and it gives you confidence’

 ‘I learned about co-operation and group skills – how to work together and use each others’ skills to full advantage.’

‘It was tough but fun. Working on a tight deadline, we produced lots of different ideas then chose one to work on. We designed a good product.’

 ‘The high point is the feeling you’ve accomplished something and come up with a good end product after all the stress and hard work.’