This autumn, Isebrook School launched a whole-school enterprise challenge designed to give learners meaningful, hands-on experience of the world of work. Learners worked collaboratively within their classes to research, design and create products to sell at the school’s annual Christmas Fayre.

The results were outstanding. From festive decorations and baubles to leather keyrings, calendars, wooden sculptures and baked goods, the fayre showcased not only creativity but also genuine entrepreneurial spirit. Learners took pride in their work and were actively involved in selling their products, managing money, and engaging confidently with customers.

This challenge provided rich cross-curricular learning, linking careers education with skills such as budgeting, planning, design, production, communication and teamwork. For many learners, it was also an opportunity to experience responsibility and independence in a real-world context  skills that are essential as they prepare for adulthood.

The fayre itself was described by many as vibrant, welcoming and full of energy. Families and visitors commented on the wide variety of stalls, the quality of the handmade items, and the positive atmosphere created by learners and staff working together.

Feedback highlighted how impressed visitors were by the effort that had gone into the event, the creativity on display, and the confidence learners showed while selling their products. Many shared how much they enjoyed visiting the school, browsing the stalls, chatting with learners and staff, and soaking up the buzzing, festive environment.

One particularly lovely theme across feedback was how clear it was that learners felt proud of their work. Visitors noted the sense of responsibility learners showed, the kindness and friendliness of everyone involved, and how special it was to see students enjoying themselves while showcasing their skills.

Events like the Enterprise Fayre are about much more than fundraising. They help strengthen relationships between school and home, raise awareness of our careers programme, and show learners that their efforts have real value and impact. The event even showcased live music from a talented learner from Isebrook School!

The success of this fayre demonstrates how enterprise activities can support confidence, communication skills, independence and teamwork  all while giving learners a genuine sense of purpose. It also reinforces the importance of community, with funds raised supporting both school development and a local food bank.

Thank You

A huge thank you to all the learners whose creativity and enthusiasm made the fayre such a success, to the families and visitors who supported the event, and to the staff who worked tirelessly behind the scenes.

Special thanks go to Careers staff Ryan Storey and Lesley Chattaway, along with the entire Isebrook School team, for planning and delivering such a meaningful and inspiring opportunity for our learners.

With feedback already calling for “the same again next year,” we’re proud to say this was enterprise learning at its very best — and we can’t wait to build on it even further.