On Wednesday 3 June, our Young Enterprise team, Boundless Wight, competed in the National Final of the Young Enterprise Best Company Competition.

Over the past few months, the team has gone from strength to strength, building their board game business around their flagship product, Walk The Wight: The Board Game. After winning the Isle of Wight, Hampshire and South East competitions, along with a range of awards recognising their business excellence, they earned a well-deserved place in the National Final.

From 1,000 teams nationwide, Boundless Wight had already secured their place among the top 12 teams in the country, an incredible achievement in itself.

The team submitted their final report and then took part in a rigorous online interview with the judging panel on Monday 1 June, answering questions about their business journey, achievements and future plans. The team felt confident after a successful interview and were excited for the final event in Cardiff.

Competition day started bright and early, with a 5.30am meeting time to catch the first ferry before travelling to Cardiff. Upon arrival, the team set up their trade stand alongside some of the country's most impressive young entrepreneurs. Despite the exceptionally high standard of competition, Boundless Wight more than deserved their place among them. In fact, they had generated the highest income of any team in the National Final.

Throughout the day, students took part in a range of activities, including an Apprentice-style business challenge, where Sophie impressed the judges enough to be awarded a “You’re Hired” medal.

The day concluded with the awards ceremony, and we were delighted to see Boundless Wight recognised with the prestigious Delta Air Lines Pursuit of Opportunity Award, selected and presented by the Head Judge.

Although the team did not take home the overall title, winning an award at the National Final means they have achieved the highest level of success ever reached by a school team from the Isle of Wight. This is a remarkable accomplishment, and we could not be prouder of everything they have achieved through their dedication, resilience and hard work.

The team left Cardiff in fantastic spirits, singing all the way home on the minibus journey back to the Island. While the competition may now be over, their business journey is only just beginning. They are already preparing for their launch event and their first production run of Walk The Wight: The Board Game, fulfilling the many pre-orders they have secured. The launch event takes place on Wednesday 17th June at The Island VI Form from 6.00 - 7.30 pm. They already have several VIPs attending! 

A huge thank you goes to Ms Garey and Mr Kidd for their enthusiasm, commitment and professional support throughout the competition. Thank you also to Miss Long for ensuring the team made the 8.15pm return ferry, with only seconds to spare!

Finally, our sincere thanks go to Tracy Osborne, Director of Fundraising and Operations at Quarry Abbey, who has volunteered as the team's mentor throughout the programme. Her guidance, expertise and unwavering support have played a vital role in the team's success.

Congratulations, Boundless Wight. We could not be more proud of your teamwork, determination and entrepreneurial spirit. This is a truly historic achievement, and we look forward to seeing where your success takes you next.