USW first in Wales to offer Young Enterprise programme to Business students

The University of South Wales is set to be the first in the country to integrate the Young Enterprise Start Up programme into its Business and Management degree, giving students the opportunity to start and run their own business.

First year Business and Management students at USW will work in teams to launch their own business idea or prototype to pitch at a showcase event. They will also take part in local, regional and national competitions to demonstrate their entrepreneurial skills and business potential.

Supported by Young Enterprise – the UK’s leading financial and enterprise education charity – students will have access to mentoring support, advice, resources and guidance tailored to the Business and Management curriculum.

Its Start Up programme, specifically designed for further and higher education, helps develop students’ employability skills and prepare them for the world of work.

Students can also set up their own business bank account and sell to the public at various events, as well as through the YE Trading Station online store.

Liam Newton, course leader for Business and Management at USW, said: “We are delighted to be the first university in Wales to integrate the Young Enterprise Start Up programme into our degree, as part of our new Challenge-Based Curriculum.

“By having strategic partnerships embedded throughout our teaching and assessment, students are fully equipped for the workforce, and will graduate with a full network of contacts from SMEs to large companies, having built a portfolio of experience throughout their studies.

“We are looking forward to seeing the students take on the challenge of starting and running a business, building skills and knowledge while benefiting from the fantastic support of Young Enterprise.”

Simon Page, Wales Lead for Young Enterprise, added: “We are delighted to be working with the USW. The programme is an important CV builder, by combining academic learning with the entrepreneurial experience of developing their own start-up, students will have the opportunity to develop the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in today's rapidly changing world. They will gain practical experience, valuable networks, and learn what it takes to turn an idea into a viable business.”