The National Enterprise Academy

TV shows such as ‘The Apprentice’ are continuing to contribute to the entrepreneurial ambitions of young people, according to Richard Lambert, the Director-General of the CBI.

And he singled out the National Enterprise Academy for praise as an example of what good work is being done to meet the demand.

Speaking at the CBI/Real Business Entrepreneurs’ Summit at the London Marriott Hotel on 15 April, he said:

“It’s also positive that there hasn’t been a let up in the public’s fascination with the high octane process of setting up and running a successful business.

“Take the Apprentice. I love the Apprentice. It’s nothing like the real world, its completely nuts but compelling, totally compelling. And the great news is that all this publicity is beginning to have real traction in the approach and ambitions of young people around the country.

“One example is the new National Enterprise Academy, which will open its doors early next year to offer a new qualification in enterprise to students over the age of 16. This is an initiative by the Government alongside Peter Jones of Dragon’s Den.

“The first academy will open in the South East of England, followed by another centre in the North West with a national roll out of satellite academies planned thereafter.”

Mr Lambert praised the number of entrepreneurs who are generously backing a number of business-focussed initiatives, including the Hunter Foundation and the City of London’s Cass Business School.

He added: “This is exciting. Successful entrepreneurs are, almost by definition, highly competitive characters. Just think what it would mean for our national business culture if our most successful entrepreneurs were to start competing with each other to support the most exciting and dynamic learning institutions.”