Enterprising Fortrose Academy and Alness Academy pupils set out their stalls at city showcase to test Young Enterprise ideas

Pupils from Ross-shire schools set out their stalls in Inverness last weekend as part of an enterprise challenge.

Teams from Alness and Fortrose Academies were taking part in the annual Young Enterprise Christmas trade fair, selling products they’d made themselves.

Eco Essences from Alness Academy did a roaring trade with their range of handmade sustainable candles and picked up a special award for equality and inclusion for their impressive teamwork, while firepits made from recycled washing machine drums from Fortrose Academy’s Revive flew off the shelves.

The Young Enterprise Scotland Company Programme for Highland and Moray runs in partnership with local schools to encourage young people to experience the challenges of running a business.

Over the course of a year teams from individual schools learn how to run a successful business by designing and making products, marketing them and managing the financial side of the business. The scheme is aimed at 15-to-19-year-olds and teams are supported by teachers, a volunteer business adviser from the local community, and an Area Team.

Linda Thomas, Chair of Young Enterprise Scotland Highland and Moray said: “Our judges were really impressed with the creativity and professionalism of this year’s teams and their flair for selling to the public.

“The trade fair is a great way for young people to learn about marketing and telling the stories behind their products. The entrepreneurial spirit of the teams was outstanding and we’re delighted with how far they’ve all already progressed since they started the programme earlier this year.”

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