Year 10 pupils were invited to Stormont by the UlsterBank as a part of their MoneySense Programme.

Pupils were encouraged to use their Mathematics in a practical everyday environment by setting up a new virtual cafe in the Carrickfergus Area. Each team of four pupils were lead by a Manager who directed the Finance Officer, Consultant and Marketer to develop their entrepreneurial skills. The Parliamentary education committee mingled with the groups adding direction and words of encouragement. A presentation was drawn up for each cafe and presented to a panel of ‘Dragons’ who listened and gave constructive feedback to each team.

The winning team was ‘The Juke Box’, a 1950s inspired American Diner situated near Carrickfergus Railway Station. Clever staffing using Catering College students kept wages to a minimum and helped provide much needed work experience for the local Further Education College. New custom made furniture was also made was also made locally and food sourced from Co.Antrim farmers.

Jake Hartley (10 WRY) kept a tight hold on finances coming in £550 below the set up budget of £6150. Rachel Cowie (10STN) as Marketer managed to attract ‘Queen’ Star ‘Brian May’ to the opening event. And excellent menu of American favourites was compiled by the Consultant, Teona Baillie (10 WRY) and the Manager Ross Black (10BLL) kept the team motivated and on task.

Our pupils were complimented on their superb presentations, manners and excellent behaviour. Yet again we have proved that #mathsisfun!

The winning group and their assigned manager

The winning team alongside Maths Teachers Miss Hall, Mrs Pierce and Organisers of the Money Sense Programme