Schools and school mentors

Each of the schools involved is invited to enter one team of students from year 8. Each school will be allowed to include a year 9 School Mentor in their team. The mentor will assist in the development of the challenges and final presentation. The year 9 student may have participated in the previous FBM competition and will bring enthusiasm, experience and guidance to the new team.

Each team consists of:

• A school.
• 8 to 12 students from year 8.
• A Business Partner.
• A School Mentor from year 9.
• Access to the Business Sources.

See a list of the schools involved.

Business partners

Each school team will work with a Business Partner (a local business).
The minimum expectations of a Business Partner are;

• A named employee who will act as mentor for ‘their’ team and will take phone calls and emails from students, offer advice and guidance, and contribute directly to the delivery of the team's Business Proposal and Challenge submissions.
• Attend regular meetings at the business or school premises with their team and teacher.
• A willingness to share business skills and experience, and welcome the team into the business, involving colleagues as and when appropriate.

Get information on business partners.

Business sources

Some businesses are unable to give the commitment required
to be a Business Partner but are enthused by the project and want to be involved.

These 'business sources' will offer information and advice when required and may be able to meet with representatives from the teams. For example, an estate agant might be prepared to supply rental costs of retail outlets in a specific area of Durham, over the telephone or by email.

Business Partners and teachers will regulate and control student access to the Business Sources.

Find out more about business sources.

Judges

See who are the judges.