Businesses and schools across Torfaen are working together as part of the borough’s second primary school Enterprise Week in July.

Businesses will mentor schools leading up to Enterprise Week, which will take place between July 16 and 20, 2018, at Pontypool Indoor Market, where youngsters will sell products they have made.

Pontypool Tesco has teamed up with Penygarn Community Primary School, whose pupils will be creating, marketing and selling a product.

Gaynor Phillips, of Tesco Pontypool, said: “We’re delighted to be supporting the Torfaen enterprise initiative again this year and to help young people in understanding what skills are involved with running a business.”

Blaenavon based RWA Compliance, a leading UK FCA compliance consultancy has also teamed up with Blaenavon Heritage V.C. School to help and support pupils with their efforts.

Members of the RWA team visited pupils to talk about the importance of marketing and branding and explained how to make products stand out from the crowd.

Tom Wood, CEO at RWA said: “We need to invest in the future of our town - these children are our future. It is important that they learn entrepreneurial skills at a young age as it will help give them the best possible start when they enter the world of work.”

Charlie, from year four, said: “I am really excited about the project and am looking forward to making and selling our products. People should buy our products to help the environment. It will also help the bees and stop food prices from rising.”

Councillor Alan Jones, who is the executive member for business, culture, leisure and tourism at Torfaen County Borough Council, said: “It’s encouraging to hear that local businesses are enthusiastic about ensuring young people learn about business skills.”

Children from George Street, Griffithstown, New Inn, Penygarn, Garnteg, Cwmffrwdoer and Blaenavon primary schools are also designing and developing products to sell in the market.

As part of the project, a group of teenagers and young adults from Inspire 2 Torfaen will also be working with local company The Best of Torfaen to gain an enterprise qualification.