The rise of an entrepreneurial generation WORDS | LOGAN BALL
W alk into a Year 13 Business and Enterprise class at Christ’s College, and it quickly becomes apparent that this is not a traditional business course. There are product prototypes being tested, sales strategies being debated, supplier relationships being negotiated, and start-up owners discussing ideas with industry mentors over coffee. It is a classroom environment that increasingly reflects the real world while balancing academic rigour, through offering 20 credits towards NCEA Level 3. This year, a record 51 students are participating in the Christ’s College Business and Enterprise programme, forming 17 start-up businesses and working alongside 20 volunteer business mentors from the wider community. The growth of the programme raises an interesting question: Are we witnessing the emergence of
the heart of the course, academic rigour remains a key component. However, what truly distinguishes the programme is the opportunity for students to put theory into practice. Each start-up is paired with its own business mentor who provides guidance, advice, and constructive challenge throughout the year. Students meet mentors off-site at local cafes, workplaces, and businesses, gaining valuable insight into the realities of operating an enterprise. These relationships provide an authentic learning experience that extends far beyond the classroom. Year 13 student Lewis Devine-Smith believes the mentor component is one of the programme’s greatest strengths. “The Business and Enterprise programme has been one of the best opportunities I’ve had at College. Having direct access to mentors with real experience has been invaluable. It’s one thing to learn theory in the classroom, but being able to sit down with someone who has actually built a business and get their honest feedback on my idea is something you can’t find anywhere else. It’s pushed me to think bigger and take my start-up seriously.” The diversity of student ventures this year highlights both creativity and ambition. Businesses range from firewood procurement and delivery through Feed the Flame, caffeinated gummy lollies from Power Pops, and locally produced organic products through Southern Sausages, to endurance nutrition
a more entrepreneurial generation? Today’s young men are exposed to
entrepreneurship on a daily basis. Through social media, podcasts, YouTube, and online communities, students can watch businesses being built in real time. They see entrepreneurs launching products, sharing successes and failures, and creating careers outside traditional pathways. Business ownership, side hustles, and start-ups are no longer distant concepts reserved for adults; they are visible, accessible, and increasingly attainable. The Christ’s College Business and Enterprise programme has evolved to meet this changing landscape. While entrepreneurship sits at
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