Malvern Business Academy
We have always worked with the ethos of giving something back to the local community, which is why we set up Malvern Business Academy. Our ‘Be Your Own Boss’ programme is an initiative aimed at young people aged 19-24 years who have not got the benefit of educational qualifications, have often faced significant challenges as a child and do not currently have the outlook of getting work or getting into college.
We believe that there are many opportunities for young people and we make it our mission to open their eyes to these opportunities and ensure that they are equipped with the skills and qualifications needed to succeed in a competitive workplace. Be Your Own Boss leads to a BTEC 2 Certificate in Understanding Enterprise and Entrepreneurship. Young people can also participate in the Duke of Edinburgh bronze award.
Young people who have worked with us have gone on to
- Level 2 apprenticeships
- Level 2 & 3 college courses
- Full-time employment in retail, catering, care work
- 12 week placement in Africa as part of the International Citizen Service
- Independent living in place of homeless hostel accommodation
Enrolling on the programme
The programmes run 2 or 3 times a year. They are free to attend for the young person. Significant funding is provided by Malvern Business Academy, Councils and via our partnership with Peter Jones Foundation for Enterprise.
There are no enrolment requirements. Young people can contact us directly or they are signposted to us via their key workers, housing providers or Job Centre. The programme is 15 hours of study a week on 3 days a week. If they young person is on JSA it forms part of their actively seeking hours. If they are on ESA it is a demonstration of their intention to become employable.
Working with the academy
If you have a professional interest in our Academy, or want more information about how you can take part, please make sure to get in contact with us. We are always glad to hear from the community and invite you to come along and speak with these brilliant young people.