MONEY management lessons were brought to life when students took part in a Junior Apprentice-style event at Bournemouth’s Bishop of Winchester Academy.

With guidance from NatWest MoneySense for Schools representatives, they were split into groups and posed as competing catering companies putting in a bid to cater for a school prom.

All 110 Year 11 students from the Mallard Road Academy took part in the event, which involved planning and designing menus, putting in tenders for supplying and serving food and being judged on ability to deliver a project on time and to budget.

Glen King, head of maths, said: “This has been a great activity, which the young people have really enjoyed. It’s very important that they gain basic money management skills and have the opportunity to develop their entrepreneurial and creative abilities.”

Bev Barter from NatWest’s Castlepoint branch was one of those advising the students and she said: “We have been very impressed with the business acumen the young people have shown.

“The importance of financial capability for young people cannot be underestimated as it’s essential that theya re equipped with the skills and confidence required to make decision in adult life.”