This year’s Saint Paul’s Enterprise Fair saw each Year 8 and Year 9 form challenged to design, organise and run two fully functioning stalls—from the initial concept right through to delivery. The shared aim was simple: raise as much money as possible for charity. Progress Tutors supported students throughout the planning process, helping them brainstorm creative ideas, build realistic budgets and organise rotas to ensure every stall was well-prepared and fully staffed.
Taking part in this enterprise project gave students a valuable opportunity to develop key life skills such as responsibility, confidence, teamwork and entrepreneurial thinking. Working collaboratively as form groups also strengthened peer relationships and encouraged students to support one another throughout the process.
On the day of the event, the Sports Hall was transformed into a lively marketplace. Students from Year 7, Year 8 and Year 9 enjoyed an afternoon browsing the wide range of activities and games on offer. Stalls catered to every interest, featuring penalty shoot-outs, cake sales, lucky dips, “throw the sponge at the teacher,” “guess the name of the toy,” selfie stations and even popcorn making.
Adding to the excitement, the event also welcomed a very special guest—a miniature Shetland pony. Pupils were delighted to meet Gideon, who quickly became one of the highlights of the afternoon.
Students embraced the experience with enthusiasm, fully engaging with the activities and taking pride in running their stalls. Managing money, interacting with customers and delivering positive customer service helped them develop practical skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom.
Mrs Chisnall, Progress Leader for Year 9, said:
“I am so proud of how the students managed the event and the effort that so many of them showed in planning and delivering their stalls. The feedback from staff and students has been brilliant, and we look forward to next year!”
In total, the Enterprise Fair raised an impressive £642 for charity. Students selected the beneficiaries themselves, choosing to support Manchester Young Lives and The Addy. Pupils in Year 8 and Year 9 have been particularly committed to raising funds, expressing a strong desire to support The Addy because of the vital role it plays within the local community.
The donation will contribute to the Manchester Young Lives Stepping Stone Appeal, which aims to fund a full refurbishment of the popular local adventure playground at the Addy Young People’s Centre. This free-to-access playground is a much‑loved community asset and an important space for youth engagement. The £642 raised by our students will be allocated directly to the Stepping Stones Appeal, helping to ensure that this valued resource can continue to serve young people for years to come.