Despite heavy traffic, we managed to make it to Murrayfield by just after 9.30am so had a chance to get registered, have a drink and finalise a few last minute points on the presentation - did the boys know the exact running order, who would wear the ponchos, where they would stand, in which order etc.
The event started just after 10am and was hosted by Des Clarke, a Glaswegian comedian and TV personality. The winner and runner up would be chosen by a three person judging panel - Neil Hunter (Business Consultant), Sam Miller (Head of Client Services) and Claire Fraser (Project Co-ordinator, Social Enterprise Academy). Competition would be fierce with 20 schools from across Scotland represented - from Annan Academy to Peebles High School, Montrose Academy to North Berwick High School.
From the very first presentation - St George's School for Girls' Banana Boat Ride - to the last - Montrose Academy's collectable Olympic figures - the quality of the work produced was excellent. The ideas were wide ranging, including energy drinks, maps, job training, green energy production, books & websites, and the different methods of delivery was testament to the work the pupils had put in - raps, music, videos, models, clothing, etc. There was a real mixture of male and female pupils, and what seemed to be good representation of all ages from 14-16.
St Ninian's team did themselves proud with their presentation. It was easily the best I had seen them present over the last couple of days. Everyone played their part and they really got across the concept of Ponch-o-lympics. From my vantage point in the audience, I could see the judges smiling and nodding in appreciation as the boys explained how their idea could meet the values associated with the Olympic and Paralympic games within their business plan. The fact that 75% of the profit was going to a sporting charity demonstrated that the boys were not just focused on making money but on giving something back.
After all the teams had finished their presentations, the judges deliberated for 15 minutes and then it was decision time. The runners up prize of £100 went to Hermitage Academy from Helensburgh for their Personal Encouragement Device, an iPod style product which played encouraging quotes from sportspeople to help young people when training. The winning team was from Caldervale High School in North Lanarkshire who came up with the idea of an educational rap CD to bring together learning and young peoples enthusiasm for music. They won £100 and the coveted place in the London final.
Overall, the event was very worthwhile and it was great to see St Ninian's High School represented in the Scottish final. Darren, Graeme, Martin, David, Chris and Ryan had the opportunity to learn vital life skills which they can take forward not just at school but beyond - team-work, problem-solving, public speaking, creative and innovative thinking. It was a real honour to help and support the team in the final. All the Business Studies staff have worked really hard over the last couple of weeks to ensure all the pupils in the department had a chance to participate in the event at some level and I believe this is an event which we should strive to do well in each year.
