On Sunday 11th June, pupils from across LEO Academy Trust got the chance to stretch their entrepreneurial wings in the LEO Children’s Market, held at Shawley Community Primary Academy. The unique annual event is a market run by children, for children.

The market provided pupils with the opportunity to open and manage their own stalls, selling items of their choosing. The aim of the market was to help the children to develop their independence, as they took full responsibility for their stalls, from developing an initial business idea, to organising and setting up the stall and their products, making sales and handling money, as well as clearing up at the end of the event. The market saw the pupils grow their confidence in public speaking and improve their communication skills, as they will be encouraged to promote their stall over the PA system.

The children were encouraged to get creative in setting up their mini businesses. In previous years, successful stalls have ranged from handmade items such as jewellery and bath bombs, to baked goods and freshly made juices, to pre-loved toys and clothes. Previously, pupils have also had great fun running games stalls such as tombolas and lucky dips.

The entire LEO Academy Trust community were excited to come together to make the Children’s Market a success. The Shawley Fundraisers (Parent Teacher Association) ran a refreshment stall and BBQ selling burgers, hot dogs, vegetarian options, snacks, ice lollies and hot and cold drinks. With plenty of games, refreshments and exciting goods on sale, the Children’s Market was an event for all the family to enjoy.

Kate Ashworth, Principal at Shawley Community Primary Academy, said:

“The Children’s Market showcases so much of what makes Shawley Community Primary Academy unique. It’s wonderful to see the pupils demonstrating our LEO Academy Trust values of perseverance, dedication, and imagination as they come up with their own creative mini business ideas and take responsibility for their stalls. Days like these are a fantastic opportunity to add to the children’s skillsets outside of the classroom, whilst bringing the local community together.

“We also are so fortunate to have the support of our outstanding Shawley Fundraisers, whose hard work adds so much to our pupils’ experience.”