Shireland CBSO Academy recently celebrated the national recognition of one of its Year 8 students. Rodgean has been featured in the Financial Times for his entrepreneurial mindset and business, which he runs alongside his studies. The article, ‘Where did all the Saturday jobs go?’, highlights his creativity, determination, and entrepreneurial flair.
Rodgean’s ventures began with a simple idea: to declutter his home. What started as a practical solution quickly grew into a small business. He sold toys, clothes, shoes and bags at local car boot sales, playing the ukulele to attract customers, and on the online marketplace, Vinted. Since last summer, Rodgean has earned around £1,000, part of which he has saved in a junior stocks-and-shares ISA to support his future education and career ambitions, with the rest reinvested into making and adding craft items to his inventory.
Beyond financial success, the experience has given Rodgean essential skills in money management, including budgeting, tracking expenses and understanding the difference between profit and revenue. He noted that running his business has helped him develop confidence and communication skills, which have benefitted him in school activities including debate club.
David Green, Principal, commented: “We are incredibly proud not just of Rodgean’s recognition, but of the skills and maturity he has gained along the way.
“Trying new ventures like this gives students real-world experience, teaches resilience and encourages independence. It’s these opportunities that help young people discover their strengths and build confidence in ways that complement classroom learning.”
Rodgean’s story reflects the Academy’s wider commitment to providing students with opportunities to explore enterprise and develop practical skills. In late 2025, the school’s Enterprise Club launched its first student-led business, Happiness is Handmade, giving students the chance to develop ideas, trial designs, and turn concepts into products ready for customers.
The project is designed to help students build practical business skills, work collaboratively and understand the realities of running a small enterprise, all while contributing to the school community.
