Running over the course of a full academic year, young people from S5 & S6 start up their own student company, running through the key milestones of developing an idea, conducting market research, creating the product or service, promoting that product and ultimately trading it.

You might expect this to be a programme specifically targeted at those with an interest in business, however the 2,000 young people who participate each year across Scotland have a very broad range of interests. Company Programme can be used to provide a real-life context to many subject areas — design and computing involved in the design of the product, English to develop the persuasive language for marketing, or Maths to establish a profitable selling price – student’s involvement in Company Programme provides a rich real-life learning experience.

Schools have also used Company Programme to support groups of young people who may require additional intervention due to low self-esteem, lack of confidence or social challenges.

Opportunities to apply classroom learning in real and relevant contexts

Develop essential skills required for future life and work (UCAS even use YE as an example of what to put on the form!)

Real experience of work – something that will be even harder post Covid-19

Engaging with a volunteer mentor from the world of work

Opportunity to take part in the YES Company Programme qualification at SCQF Level 6 worth up to 30 credit points

Suitable for students in S5/6

Teams of between 2 and 32 can participate in each student company, with a recommendation of 8-12 students for most impact from the programme.

Flexibility to run the programme within the timetable, or as an extra-curricular project

Supports careers education through the provision of real-life experiences of work

Drives positive attitudes to learning, life and work

Clear guidance on how students can use their experience to complete UCAS applications

Participation in the SCQF Level 6 Company Programme qualification reported through Insight

A dedicated online platform to support students through their Company Programme experience

Access to a PVG checked and trained volunteer

Business Advisor to support students through the programme – either remotely or in person

Public liability insurance for all of the student companies

A brand-new e-commerce platform for online trading for 2020/21

Competitions for student companies throughout the programme.