Maitland High School will be transformed into a community market hub in the lead up to Christmas through the work of a group of student entrepreneurs.
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The school will launch the 2018 Magpie High - Twilight Markets this Saturday, after six months of hard work.
Staff and community members have been working alongside a group of 35 students to help develop their concept of a marketplace.
The markets will offer food, coffee, recycled products, artworks, Christmas gifts and more quirky items.
Maitland High principal Paula Graham said the markets helped students build vital skills beyond the school curriculum.
“The latest research from the Foundation for Young Australians shows that creativity and entrepreneurship are key capabilities that young people will need as they move into adulthood,” Mrs Graham said.
“We know that along with academic results, employability skills and attitude are critical to making a successful transition from the school environment to that of working life, however, this new research shows that there is more to the story.”
“The Magpie High - Twilight Markets has been a wonderful project to proactively engage our students with the aim of building their entrepreneurial skills.”
The project committee, led by the student body and supported by teachers and community members, has undertaken all aspects of the project, from surveying students through to executing the event, and also sourcing and producing the products to be sold on the day.
The school also secured an event sponsor in Greater Bank, which provided funding, ran financial workshops and helped develop students’ business plans.
“This has been a real community project and has taught valuable lessons in building networks and relationships,” Ms Graham said. “Beyond the support of Greater Bank, the students have also engaged local businessman and entrepreneur, Christian Cramp, who has also backed the project by providing mentoring to student stall holders.”
The event will run from 4pm to 7pm at the school, and will feature a silent disco, goodies, balloons and fairy floss for the little ones.
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