Over thirty cadets from Yorkshire and the Humber attended the Business and Enterprise Study Weekend (6-7 July 2024), an event aimed at fostering entrepreneurial skills. The event concept was created by Colonel Simon Banks-Cooper, and then developed and hosted by the Business School at York St John University.
Developing skills and putting them into practice
The weekend commenced with a series of introductions, including keynote address by Cherie Federico, founder of Aesthetica Magazine followed by working sessions that included discussions on shared innovative business ideas and planning, encouraging skills such as creative thinking, teambuilding, critical analysis, strategic development and constructive collaboration amongst the cadets.
Teambuilding in action
Cadets worked in groups to develop business ideas in preparation for the final day ‘Dragon’s Den’ style presentation where they pitched their business concepts to a panel of business academics from York St John University and local business leaders. The hands-on experience provided the cadets with invaluable feedback and real-world insights into the challenges and opportunities of entrepreneurship.
Cadets who attended the weekend event earned credits towards their academic journey should they choose to attend York St John University in the future.
Colonel Simon Banks-Cooper, Honorary Colonel Humberside and South Yorkshire Army Cadet Force
“What a wonderful university campus on which to spend the weekend learning about business and enterprise. An opportunity that not only allows cadets to develop their knowledge, but also experience first hand how many of the skills they acquire within the Cadet Forces overlap with those required in business, and gain an accredited qualification too. Proving again the relevance to employers and social impact Cadet Forces deliver. My sincere thanks to everyone at the York St John University Business School for hosting the cadets so magnificently and for putting this event together.”
Dr Rebecca Biggins, Associate Dean, York Business School, York St John University
“It’s a huge privilege to be hosting the first Enterprise weekend at York Business School, at York St. John University. Having the cadets on campus, discovering how businesses work, exploring their own business ideas and thinking about their future careers is an amazing opportunity for them – and us. We hope this will be the first of many”.
Successful outcomes
The programme prepared cadets with the essential skills and strategy to embark on their own business ventures. It marked a significant step in bridging military discipline and entrepreneurial spirit. The partnership between cadet service programmes and education providers has set a precedent for future collaborative events aimed at empowering service members.