This year, Abbey College Birmingham's day long skills development workshop revolved around the theme of the hit TV show - the Apprentice. When the students arrived at college, they were divided into teams that went across year groups and nationalities.

The teams were also assigned teacher helpers to guide and facilitate the development of various business skills. Each team's main objective was to market an asset of the college such as sports, mentoring, buddying, the college council, summer school or Easter revision. They then chose a team name, elected a team leader and set to work! Each group worked to produce some copy marketing, an e-marketing strategy (shown via a mood board) and then pitched their ideas to none other than Alan Sugar! (Well the closest we have - Richard Purchase - Director of Colleges). Vice Principal, Sarah Munton, played the part of Margaret (advisor) and Thalat Mahmood, sports teacher, played the part of Nick (advisor). The students were monitored throughout the day by the advisors and information was reported back to 'Richard Sugar'.

As the students busied themselves with their tasks, the Study Room was transformed into a Board Room ready for the pitches at the end of the day! The different groups produced exceptionally high level work, with brilliant ideas and a strong sense of business. The winning group was called 'I'm Karen, not Margaret' and was advertising the summer school. The pitch was clear and to the point and met all of the criteria asked for. After each group pitched to Richard Sugar, they were asked various questions about their day, the most common response was that they had enjoyed working as a team.

Abbey College would like to congratulate all those that took part for producing some genuinely professional material. Thanks to all the teachers that supported the event, and special thanks to Richard Purchase for becoming our Richard Sugar!

Click here for more photos from the event.