More than just a good idea

Having a good idea is one thing, but making it happen is another. If you’ve got drive and a good idea for making the world a better place, then Hampshire School for Social Entrepreneurs would like to hear from you.

The next programme attracting socially minded people from across the region will be based in Aldershot, starting 2 November 2010 - applications now being accepted.

Students meet once a week and follow a specially designed action learning plan to equip and inspire them to realise their vision.  There are no lecturers and no text books - just a practical and innovative agenda of learning.

Students learn from established experts and in a recent visit to whomadeyourpants? - a worker co-op in Southampton making ethical pants - Becky John, founder and CEO, met with the students sharing stories of how her vision came to fruition for marginalised women. Becky said “It can be very easy to feel you’re the only one with your values and the only one trying to make a difference.  So to be part of a bigger group must be a really supportive thing.” 

This seems to be the underpinning feature of the school; offering a regular meeting space to celebrate successes and share hard times and failings with people who understand.  Students also have a personal tutor and take part in facilitated action learning sets to work through issues and grow their ideas into sustainable businesses.

“What started as a vision is now becoming reality. Without the school for social entrepreneurs I would still be a frustrated dreamer”, said Ann Carver from Havant, one of the 16 students from the current cohort. 

Her aspirations to see people debt free by tackling their addiction to spending has led to her developing and delivering a practical habit-breaking course and a useful ‘save and behave’ kit for when you feel the need to shop. 

“It’s the drive and tenacity that sets them apart; that, together with a great but often simple idea”, said Conroy Williams, the Programme Manager.  The one year programme is designed especially with social change in mind.  He added,  “It’s beyond ordinary business; we have a triple bottom line, yes making money is essential but it’s about pounds plus people and planet”.  This way of measuring profit is at the sharp edge of David Cameron’s ‘Big Society’, where he is hoping for Civil Society to step up to the mark.

To see videos about the current students and the latest HSSE newsletters go to  www.hsse.org.uk  If you think you’ve got the drive and the ideas for social change, then Hampshire School for Social Entrepreneurs would like to hear from you.  Applications are currently being invited from suitable candidates. 

Visit the HSSE website find out more about applying!

Contact Conroy on 01962 857376 or via email to find out more or request an application pack. 

Closing date for applications is 28 August 2010.