Developing Enterprising Young People

Bridgend College was one of 17 further education colleges across the UK that took part in the first ‘Enterprising Minds’ survey of more than 1600 college students, led by the Carnegie UK Trust.  

The survey examined the diverse attitudes of 16 to 21 year old college students towards their job prospects, enterprise and the UK economy. The face to face surveys of students were undertaken by fellow students trained and supported as the first generation of Carnegie UK Research Interns. The findings suggest young people are aware that things will be tough in the current climate, but still remain positive and motivated about their future, with half expecting to work for themselves at some time in their working lives.

Carnegie UK Trust Chief Executive, Martyn Evans, said the study is highly encouraging in a time of economic uncertainty: “Far from being bowed down by being labelled as a lost generation of young people in Britain, the study suggests college students, given opportunities and support, continue to feel motivated to think in enterprising and creative ways.

“We found that students, where enterprise education is provided, had more belief that they might start their own business or work for themselves. We’d encourage all colleges to examine what further steps they can take to nurture entrepreneurial ambition. As the economy looks for growth through enterprise and innovation, these are the kind of future workers we will really need.”

Ruth Rowe, Enterprise Officer at Bridgend College says “Giving students the opportunity to experience enterprise is absolutely vital in the current global economic climate and entrepreneurship education can play a huge part in equipping young people with the skills they need to succeed whatever their chosen career path.”

Ruth recently travelled to the Houses of Parliament for the launch of the Carnegie UK Trust report where she met Owen Smith MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Wales. She spent some time talking with him about the role of FE Colleges in developing entrepreneurship, and South Wales itself as Owen is from Llantrisant.

The Carnegie UK Trust works to improve the lives of people throughout the UK and Ireland, by changing minds through influencing policy, and by changing lives through innovative practice and partnership work. We are one of over 20 foundations worldwide endowed by Scots American philanthropist Andrew Carnegie.