Schools invited to host a Peter Jones Enterprise Academy

Entrepreneur and Dragon’s Den star Peter Jones CBE is inviting schools to host the country’s first school-based Peter Jones Enterprise Academies.

The Academies will act as hubs of outstanding enterprise provision, with students receiving pioneering support to start businesses and achieve globally recognised qualifications in business, enterprise and entrepreneurship. They will also receive funding to enable their students to start their own business while at school.

This announcement comes as a new poll has revealed that almost three quarters of people (71%) believe schools and colleges should embed enterprise education as a key part of every young person’s education.

The survey by Censuswide for the Peter Jones Foundation also found that 70% of UK adults thought a practical education in enterprise and entrepreneurialism “empowers” young people to build or join successful businesses – potentially helping to improve their job prospects and succeed in the world of work.

Some 72% of people also thought “good and meaningful” enterprise education and experiences in schools improve social mobility, which has the potential to transform young people’s life chances.

Peter Jones CBE, Founder and Chairman of the Peter Jones Foundation, said: “I’m absolutely delighted to announce this opportunity for schools to host a Peter Jones Enterprise Academy, and to help young people across the country develop the real-world business skills that will help them succeed in life.

“I believe all young people deserve a bright future and I started the Foundation with a clear goal – to improve young people’s lives. Good enterprise education is an essential element of this and should be part of all schools.

“We are building on the success of our work to date and expanding our charitable provision by working in partnership with leading education providers through the Peter Jones Enterprise Academy Programme. Today’s launch of the first school-based Peter Jones Enterprise Academies will further help us create the next generation of business leaders, entrepreneurs and young people with the skills to succeed in the world of work.”