Every year, all Year 12 students have the opportunity to participate in the Peter Jones Tycoon Enterprise competition in small teams. As part of the process, each team drafts a business plan, sells throughout a trading window, and then submits a project evaluation. Our business, Glass Gardens, was set up in response to the overuse of disposable cups within our school, providing an environmentally friendly, sustainable alternative that didn’t compromise aesthetics. We made our products unique by decorating our glass tumblers with colourful floral patterns, using vinyl transfers which we heat treated to ensure durability. We also sold miniature spider plants in upcycled glass jars to further reduce waste and give old jars a new life.
Throughout our trading window we saw success, particularly from our stall at the SWPS Christmas Fair where we were able to reach a new market. The process taught us budgeting skills, how to market effectively on social media, problem solving skills and allowed us to be creative. Each member of the team came from a different subject background, bringing diverse perspectives and a range of skills.
A few months after trading had ended, we were selected as one of four teams nationally to attend the Peter Jones Foundation Charity shoot day at Holland & Holland shooting grounds, along with other business owners and entrepreneurs. We were able to meet experienced professionals who offered advice on starting a successful business, spoke about our business and journey and continued to market our products. A highlight of the day was meeting Peter Jones himself, with whom we discussed our work.
This journey has taught us a range of skills which will prove invaluable in any career, balancing enjoyment and challenge. We are incredibly grateful for all the opportunities provided to us throughout the competition and eagerly await the results for our 2025 cohort.
Sienna B, Year 12
