The key aim of the BIG PIE Challenge is to connect business with education which will positively affect careers, information, advice and guidance. In the North East of England, we still suffer from being at the lower end of league tables with children leaving school with limited ambition and aspiration. Businesses complain of the skills shortages and the younger generations not having the right attitude and aptitude for work.  

The BIG PIE Challenge brings STEEM activities into schools through a variety of challenges. Along with the help of local businesses, the children are able to complete a formal qualification at the early age of 10 or 11 years old. They compete with other schools in the region to plan, create and sell their own products. The school that makes the most profit is the winner and the Challenge will ultimately culminate in an awards ceremony at the Discovery Museum in July.   

The BIG PIE Challenge is a fun and inclusive way for businesses to support their schools and schools to engage with business. The key focus is on linking local organisations and individuals so that school children have a clear line of site of job opportunities and positive inspirational role models. The NCFE Qualification provides the pupils with an industry recognised qualification and the foundations to become better equipped to enter the world of work.