BTEC students at Stamford American International School learn entrepreneurial skills by developing student business ideas
Stamford American’s Grade 12 BTEC Art & Design students surprised the school’s Maintenance team with Christmas gifts. They raised money for the gifts through their Mini-Business Project (MBP). Through the MBP, student business ideas were turned into fully realised small business ventures. The students took charge of every step of the process, from initial research and prototyping to production, branding and marketing. The school also provided relevant experiences to help the students shape their understanding of their project and inspire them as they gained entrepreneurial skills.
Visual Arts Educator Adeline Lim elaborates, “BTEC Art & Design students went on a field trip to NEX mall. They studied product design, merchandising and branding across various stores. Students also explored packaging materials and estimated potential costs for the project. They then pitched their student business ideas to a panel of teachers in a Shark Tank-style session to gain feedback and refine their sales pitch. We also invited local entrepreneurs to share their journeys and advice.”
The students raised $1,034 from the sale of their products at the school’s annual Winter Wonderland event in December 2024. They channelled this back by way of spreading cheer to the school’s Maintenance team. Stamford American says that this hands-on experience helped the students to cultivate creativity, entrepreneurial skills and real-world problem-solving skills. This prepares BTEC Art & Design students for future opportunities in both business and design.
Students share their views
“This experience taught me that it’s not just about creating and selling a product. There’s also the marketing aspect, attracting customers and retaining customers. Collaboration and teamwork are also important.” – Lorien (products: customisable stickers, badges and pouches)
“What I enjoyed most was the production. I also enjoyed speaking to customers – when people are interested in why you made something, and in buying it, it’s a good feeling. That first purchase is a good feeling.” – Wyatt (products: handcrafted bamboo candles, bamboo speakers, hardwood hair sticks and hardwood earrings from recycled and locally sourced materials)
“My takeaway was to find a way to provide accessible and affordable pieces; it was very nice when people made a purchase. The experience made me adaptable, and I learnt how to problem-solve.” – Sarah (products: handcrafted clay charms)
“The BTEC MBP gave us a realistic view of what it’s like selling a product in the real world and how different markets work. I enjoyed getting to know who we were selling to. It was fun to tell the story of why we were selling the product as it moved a lot of people to buy.” – Emma (products: handcrafted pillow-style Christmas ornaments)
“I enjoyed the modelling process because it helped me think about what characteristics belong to which character. I enjoyed talking to clients because people are interested in different things. For example, kids fidget with the products, but parents ask questions!” – Tevynearyrath (products: 3D-printed, articulated worm toys that double as keychains)
Stamford American International School is at 1 Woodleigh Lane.
6653 2949 | sais.edu.sg
This article about BTEC students at Stamford American International School first appeared in the March 2025 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe so you never miss a copy! Also, read about the vision of Stamford American for personalised learning and the over 350 after-school activities the school’s students can choose from.
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