On 20 January, fifteen pupils from Year 10 went to Gunwharf Quays for the launch of this year's Made in Portsmouth challenge. Landsec, the company that owns Gunwharf Quays (and other major retail destinations, such as Bluewater in Kent) runs an annual competition for local young people. In teams of five, they have to put forward a business plan for a retail unit in Gunwharf Quays that is both profitable and community-focused. 

 

The launch day involved a session on 'Creative Placemaking', which focused on how retailers create 'Instagrammable moments' and make their locations pleasant and memorable to visit. Students also were taught about the importance of sustainability and how to plan their business with efficiency in mind. There was also a fascinating session on 'Customer Insight and Guest Experience', which gave students an insight into how Gunwharf knows the shopping patterns of specific demographics (the students now know what happens when you accept cookies on your phone!) and how to create useful surveys. Finally, we were taken on a tour of the outlet and had a chance to view the empty unit, so that their planning can begin.

 

The Springfield teams are now working hard towards the competition on 3 March, in the hope that they will be selected to compete in the national semi final. This competition is fantastic for fostering skills in oracy, design, collaboration and marketing as well as giving pupils an insight into the retail sector. We are grateful to Landsec, the Gunwharf Quays team and Ahead Partnerships for this opportunity.