Students start up shop in Saxon Square

Retail students from three Poole and Bournemouth secondary schools have officially opened a profitable shop as part of their City and Guilds retail course.

The year 10 pupils from Twynham, Glenmoor and Ashdown schools were given the task to set up and run a shop for a week.

Christchurch Mayor Cllr Nick Geary and the Mayoress cut a ribbon to officially open the shop in Saxon Square, which is being staffed entirely by the local retail students.

The scheme, organised by Retail Skillshop Dorset, Twynham and Glenmoor schools with help from Saxon Square management and local retailers, allows the youngsters to use their classroom training in a realistic hands-on environment to develop the skills retailers want.

Cllr Geary said, “This initiative is to be commended - it is an excellent idea. I applaud anything that equips young people with the skills and confidence to deal with the world of work and I urge everyone to come along and support the shop.”