A TOP cross country athlete has jumped into retail by running a shop for peers and parents that will also raise funds for charity.
Year 6 Barnard Castle Preparatory School boy Acer Tarn and his father Kurtis have built the mini store from scratch with spare wood as part of a school project that’s an invaluable alternative to SATs.
The 11-year-old, of Melsonby, is selling healthy snacks and seasonal treats at break times and opening for parents collecting their children at the end of the day.
Year 6 Moneywise Project is part of the school’s Achievement Award which is designed to be a less stressful, more diverse and enriching alternative to SATs.
Acer, who is a top six cross country runner for his age in the UK and the current North Yorkshire, South Durham U11 Harrier League champion, is selling fruit cups, fruit, cereal bars and popcorn.
Drinks-wise he’s offering hot chocolate in the colder months and home-made lemonade when the weather turns warmer. He is also stocking the store with home grown fruit, vegetables and eggs from the school’s outdoor education area.
All proceeds are being reinvested in stock and at the end of the year the profits will be donated to charity.
Acer said: “I really wanted to set up a healthy tuck shop in the playground and it is proving very popular. I’ve enjoyed researching what to sell and helping my dad make the shop.
“Pupils love visiting at breaktimes and parents are hoping to meet up for a drink from the Trinity term while they wait for their children at the end of the day. For me it was a case of giving something back to Prep School, leaving a legacy for when I move up to senior school next year.”
Headmistress Laura Turner said: “The children had to pitch their ideas Dragon’s Den-style and Acer went the extra mile by dressing up like an old street vendor.
“All the children loved the Moneywise Project, which gave them a real taste for commerce and life skills they will take into adulthood. We believe this initiative is a brilliant way for our Year 6s to take ownership, work as a team and foster a sense of community.
“We place great emphasis on the value of the Achievement Award as a direct alternative to SATs. Year 6s work on the award all year round and it is much more enriching than exams, helping make memories that will inspire them and develop skills they will be able to use throughout their lives.”