PPM Limited helps primary school to ‘make a profit & make a difference’ through Bright Stars programme

Friday, 14 April 2023

Written by PPM Ltd

PPM Limited is partnering with Boltons C Of E Primary School in the 2023 Bright Stars programme that challenges primary school pupils across Cumbria to run their own mini social enterprises to ‘make a profit & make a difference’. 

Funding from the Cumbria Community Foundation is enabling our business and partner school to take part in the programme.

Bright Stars organised by the Centre for Leadership Performance enables primary school pupils across Cumbria to experience the excitement and challenges of running their own mini social enterprises, and at the same time learn about leadership and the skills and talent it takes to succeed. Up to 50 schools across Cumbria are set to take part in the 8-week Bright Stars programme which runs from Monday 17th April to Thursday 8th June 2023

Communities that form Community Partnerships and participate in the siting process for a Geological Disposal Facility (GDF) can benefit from Community Investment Funding (CIF) available for projects, schemes and initiatives.  

Costs associated with Bright Stars are often a barrier for micro businesses and voluntary, community and social enterprises to take part. The additional funding will enable them to partner schools within the Allerdale GDF search area to set up their social enterprise businesses.

They can help the children to develop business know-how and realise their full potential, advising and guiding pupils as they create businesses designed to ‘make a difference’ to something that matters to them – locally, nationally or globally.

The inclusive eight-week programme is designed to help businesses and schools forge ongoing links that provide meaningful volunteering opportunities for local employees to inspire future generations, encourage business start up's and raise awareness of local careers. 

Bright Stars introduces Cumbrian primary school children to leadership, social entrepreneurship and teamwork and excites pupils about the world of business in a fun accessible way.  It enables children to meet positive role models and raises their aspirations, providing opportunities to show leadership and gain new skills, and encouraging young people to make a positive impact in their local communities. 

More than 1500 pupils took part in Bright Stars 2022 which is project-managed by the CforLP and delivered and funded in partnership with local businesses. Children have gained huge benefits from the programme which enriches the school curriculum and encourages the children to ‘Dream BIG’. 

CforLP Executive Director Sarah Glass explains: “The Allerdale GDF Community Partnership and Cumbria Community Foundation funding enables more local businesses to forge stronger links to their local schools through this inclusive and exciting programme that broadens the horizons of young people and introduces them to new possibilities and people." 

“The scheme was co-created in partnership with businesses to nurture a culture of aspiration and enterprise. It also removes barriers to engagement between local business and local primary schools and helps to develop the talent pipeline for the future. We want to connect more businesses to work with pupils and develop their business skills, social enterprise ideas and open their minds to the excitement of business from an early age. The programme is fully project-managed so it is easier for businesses to get involved." 

To find out more or support the scheme please contact Claire Johnson This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit www.cforlp.org.uk/programmes/bright-stars-primary/