Our Careers and Employability team has been channeling Dragon's Den with a workshop designed to help students to develop an entrepreneurial mindset. 

The project asked Computing (Level 4) students at our Kilmarnock Campus to come up with a new business idea and work out how it could be profitable. It involved everything from considering what equipment they'd need to buy and designing logos to identifying target customers and potential competitors.

The students were allowed complete freedom to explore and generate ideas for small businesses. They were then tasked with researching their idea and producing a business plan that was presented in front of a panel. The project was designed to help students develop skills such as digital literacy, research, problem solving, collaboration, adaptability, confidence and self-esteem.

Stuart Muir, Careers and Employability Officer, said: The students all presented their ideas very effectively, gaining positive feedback from both Cameron and John. They praised the level of research and detail in the plans and the effective way that the students presented their ideas and demonstrated their knowledge.”

This workshop came up with some brilliant business ideas from lots of interesting sectors including ideas that included baking, cocktails, dog products and gaming. 

Cameron Singleton, Start Up Adviser at Business Gateway Ayrshire (East), also attended the workshop to share tips and advice with the students and he was on the judging panel for the final presentations.

Wendy McColl, Head of Student Experience, added: “At Ayrshire College we look to empower our students with skills that help them to embrace an entrepreneurial mindset. Workshops like this are a great way of just doing that as they allow students to apply digital skills in real-world contexts. 

“Not only did this session help foster creative thinking but it also works as part of the bigger journey they’re on in preparing for careers where adaptability, collaboration and resilience can be just as important as technical ability.”   

Thanks to Stuart for organising, Cameron for his help on the day and John McTaggart, Curriculum Quality Manager for Sport, Fitness and Hospitality at Kilmarnock, for joining the judging panel.