Year 12 entrepreneurs have been hard at work developing innovative products. Their efforts culminated in a fantastic Pitch Day last week at Rutherford House where our three talented groups presented their ventures to the Young Enterprise Scheme judges.

The Young Enterprise Scheme (YES) provides a wonderful opportunity for students to showcase their creativity and business acumen by setting up and running a real business. As part of our Year 12 Commerce programme, it's a favourite. This year we have three YES teams running creative businesses and selling their products.

Mary's Pani Kawakawa Balm

This team has created a natural Kawakawa Balm, crafted from kawakawa leaves and other natural resources. Their aim is to provide a healthy, soothing product for the skin, offering relief for conditions like eczema and dry skin. The group had a fantastic experience selling their product at at Te Rauparaha Arena in Porirua on Saturday 7 June. They said, "It was so fun to be out of the classroom and really experience what it is like to sell a product at a market” and “it was great to speak to other small businesses and network, and get real face to face feedback from customers”.

Flow 'n' Grow

This thoughtful initiative offers a period kit designed to help young people understand their menstrual cycle. Each kit includes a first period guide, pads, tampons, panty liners, a handwritten note from older girls, and potentially a wheat pack, sanitary wipes, and period underwear. Flow 'n' Grow seeks to reframe periods as a positive and natural aspect of health, connecting young people to generations past and the earth.

Pī Wākihi Beeswax Wraps

This group is making Beeswax Wraps to help food last longer, reduce plastic waste, and educate people about Pacific cultures. Their wraps come in two sizes and various bundles, featuring cultural quotes and positive affirmations inside, with beautiful Pacific cultural designs on the outside. They're targeting environmentally conscious individuals, those interested in diverse cultures, and anyone looking for sustainable packaging options.

We're incredibly proud of our Year 12 students for their dedication and impressive pitches! Anyone keen to buy their products should get in touch!