Ringwood business offers students inspiring example of entrepreneurship

Students from St Michael’s Middle School in Wimborne have been offered an inspiring example of entrepreneurship.

It started with a talk given to students by Samantha Riley, who founded Manta Makes in 2015 from her kitchen table.

On the back of that inspiring talk, groups of year eight students have been visiting the Ringwood printing business, taking tours and asking questions to learn how it works.

Samantha Riley

Samantha said: “A lot of children at this age have no idea what they want to do for a career, but that’s not a bad thing.

“I think those who visited us were interested in seeing two former St Michael’s students working here and learning that they took very different routes.

“We also have all ages of people working here and everybody gets on well and I think that taught the children about diversity.”

Samantha has also agreed to be the school’s Careers Enterprise Adviser.

Pam Gould from the school’s senior leadership team said: “The children are so lucky to have this hands-on experience.

“Samantha and engineering husband Paul began the business on their table with one laser engraver.

“They now work out of premises in Ringwood with staff and a growing business selling all manner of items, including engraved wood, mugs, cushions, jewellery, keyrings and plaques.

“Hearing about how the business developed really engaged the children, and seeing some former pupils working there really brought it home to them.

“We have taken children on groups to the business with support from the Dorset Careers Hub, who were able to provide a grant to allow us to run this workplace project.

“They get to see what happens and learn how a business operates. The company is also making us a special large jigsaw which is personalised for the children.”

Liz West, CEO of Initio Learning Trust which includes St Michael’s School, said: “What a great experience for the children.

“This will really open their eyes to the different careers open to them, and how it’s possible to start a business and grow it. Our Trust really wants to encourage entrepreneurialism in our students.”