BUDDING entrepreneurs need more tutors. The Guernsey branch of Young Enterprise is seeking help from local businesses to cope with the programme’s popularity.

‘With six companies operating last year, as well as the team company, our adviser team was very stretched indeed,’ said Young Enterprise adviser coordinator Steve Morris.

Young Enterprise operates on a ‘learning by doing’ principle to help people set up and run their own companies.

Last year 131 pupils joined the scheme, with 11 taking part in the team programme, designed for those with learning difficulties.

Mr Morris said that to become an adviser, the only requirements were common sense and some business experience. He added that being an adviser could bring enormous personal rewards.

Local chairman David Packman added that being an adviser could also reflect well on the person’s employer.

‘Involvement in Young Enterprise sends a powerful signal that you are committed to supporting your local community,’ he said.

Mr Packman added that the number of achievers last year also put pressure on locations used to host the scheme.

‘If you have premises that could accommodate about 25 young

people, ideally within an environment where they can be

productive, we would be equally delighted to hear from you,’ he said.

‘This [Young Enterprise] is great preparation for them to learn about the world of business in a near-real situation, with real customers, real staff and real money. All we need now is for the present business community to invest in the future of business in Guernsey: our young people.’

The Young Enterprise programme starts every September and lasts for nine months, one evening a week, for two to three hours. A volunteer adviser will initially work alongside experienced advisers.

An adviser introduction evening is planned for 7pm on 22 September at the Guernsey Electricity offices at North Side.

For further information, contact Steve Morris on 241921, or steven.morris@electricity.gg