Astley Cooper students learn business skills from Hemel Hempstead companies

Two companies in Hemel Hempstead have helped students from Astley Cooper School to develop their business skills as part of a pre-apprenticeship placement.

Topdec Decorating Supplies and Sweet Memory Lane have been training three pupils from the school since October. The students are taught different elements of running a business, from customer service and e-commerce to more hands-on aspects like paint-mixing and stocking shelves.

Business owner Brain Green has enjoyed having the pupils learn from him and his staff. He said: “They've developed their skills and they're rewarded for going above and beyond, which they both do. I think for them to see and perform is really good for them to grow their skills in future business and job roles.”

As part of their pre-apprenticeship placement,16-year-olds Sean Kelleher and Fenn Shulver work at Topdec whilst Tyler Waite, 17, trains at the sweet shop in Hemel Hempstead.

Brian explained: “I'm hoping this will give them an understanding of what work life is like and how to approach a future job. Coming out of school into a full-time job isn't easy.”

Astley Cooper business teacher and the pre-apprenticeship placement coordinator Zen Mahmood said: “Our students have the chance to understand the world of work first-hand and acquire transferrable skills to prepare them for life after school.

He added: “I believe this gives our students a head start in life, developing their interpersonal and communication skills as well as independence.”