The college initially provided a range of practical activities for learners as part of classroom sessions, such as making their own t-shirts, mugs and keyrings. Learners refined their skills to such a level that products were of sufficient quality that they could be sold. As a result, learners set up an internal enterprise, selling products to staff and family members.
Due to the success of this strategy, learners set up an online marketplace to sell their products to the public, ‘Beechwood bits and bobs’. Learners completed market research, calculating which items sold best online then adapted their approach to sales, for example through working towards themes each term that would tie into celebrations such as Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day and Easter. Within four weeks of opening their shop, learners had 5-star reviews and had sold out of one of their products.
Learners are responsible for every aspect of the shop from market research, product development to customer service and ensuring items have the correct postage by weighing and measuring and buying the items they are sending. All learners within the college are involved in running the shop. Learners each have a valued role depending on their interests, strengths and abilities. Some design the products, others pack up orders ready for posting, and others walk to the local post box to post items.
