Fortitude wins Dover Young Enterprise

Sir Roger Manwood's School in Sandwich has triumphed at the Dover District final of the 2011/12 Young Enterprise Company Programme with its company 'Fortitude', and will now go on to represent the Dover District Area at the Kent final on 3rd May 2012 at The University of Greenwich.

Tim Waggott, Director of Business and Support Services at the Port of Dover, presented the trophy, certificate and a cheque for £250 to the company.

The winning company were mentored by Lesley James, one of Dover Harbour Board's team of advisors working with local schools. Lesley described being a business advisor as "very rewarding and satisfying, but also quite demanding!"

Lesley said: "Our role is to guide the students through the experience, help them develop personal skills and work as a team. This year has been a real learning curve for Fortitude and things did not always go as smoothly as they would have hoped. They soon realised business can be tough, and that the need to have the right people in the right roles was really important if they were to achieve their goal. It meant pulling out all the stops to be ready for the Company Programme final. With commitment and determination the team have managed to produce an excellent product which they are currently marketing. Having won Wednesday night's competition, Fortitude now go through to the Kent final. As their advisor, I am very proud of the team and delighted that their hard work has been recognised."

Astor College received two awards for best company report and best presentation report by 'Inspirationary'.

A trophy and certificate were also presented to 'Change Inc' from Dover College for best trade stand.

Tim Waggott said: "As the continuing major sponsor of Young Enterprise in Dover District we really believe in helping to develop the talents and skills of local young people. This will serve to support both their employability and encourage them to create a culture of enterprise in the local community."