The Junior Entrepreneur Programme (JEP) has launched for the second year, aiming to attract 10,000 primary school children in Ireland and Northern Ireland, doubling in size.
 
JEP is a free 10 week entrepreneurial education programme for primary school kids, which aims not only to teach them business skills but build self-confidence and self esteem, and learn to appreciate their individual talents and skills.
 
The programme was first launched nationally in Ireland last year, and this year plans to extend the programme to Northern Ireland. While there are several entrepreneur programmes for older kids, JEP is unique in welcoming primary school children to take part.
 
This week as children are returning to school, the programme is launching its #NeverTooYoung campaign, which says that you are never too young to start exploring creative business ideas.
 
“Children are creative and curious by nature, and these are just two of the skills required to be successful in business,” says Jerry Kennelly, co-founder of the programme.
 
“Through JEP, we want to show kids just how much fun creating, working and succeeding in business can be.”
 
JEP is aligned with the school curriculums in both Ireland and Northern Ireland, and work through a series of projects, teaching kids presentation, drawing, technology, research and numeracy skills, as well as problem solving and collaboration.
 
Programme kits are delivered free to participating schools, including a JEP Teacher’s Guide, Posters and classroom display, as well as the help of a dedicated entrepreneur project manager in each region.
 
“This is a great opportunity for all school children,” Jerry Kennelly explains. “There is no cost to the schools, and the benefits are enormous. It has been proven that pupils who participate in entrepreneurship programmes demonstrate increased initiative and self-confidence.”
 
“Fostering a love for business and a culture of entrepreneurship in children will not only provide them with opportunities in the future, but will also support job creation and economic development in Ireland.”
 
The organisers are encouraging parents, pupils and schools to use the #NeverTooYoung tag on social media on Monday, 10th to promote the not-for-profit programme to make sure as many children as possible get the opportunity to take part.
 
Applications for the Junior Entrepreneur Programme will close Wednesday, September 12th
 

Latest

Trending