What is Enterprise Education?
Enterprise education consists of enterprise capability supported by better financial capability and economic and business understanding. Young people need opportunities to be enterprising through applying their knowledge, skills and attributes — to 'make their mark'.
Ofsted recommends that schools should establish a clear definition of enterprise that is understood by staff, pupils and other stakeholders.
How to do it
Ofsted identifies two other key elements:
- an enterprising learning environment in which students are encouraged to take the initiative
- an enterprise process which is akin to project working
Why do it?
Enterprise education is a key component of work-related learning which is statutory at key stage 4, and schools are required to have regard to the QCA guidance about it.
Enterprise education can help raise aspirations and develop valuable skills for both higher education and employment. Enterprise opportunities can challenge the most able students, enhance a range of curriculum subjects and drive up standards as part of the school improvement agenda.
Ofsted reports that pupils are motivated by enterprise learning. They enjoy being given the autonomy to tackle relevant problems, take responsibility for their own actions, engage in real issues and evaluate the outcomes of their decisions.
Business strongly supports the acquisition of enterprise attributes as an important factor in developing a skilled workforce and a dynamic economy. Some young people welcome the chance to start up their own business.