A NEW programme which aims to prepare young people for the world of work, or to become a young entrepreneur will officially be launched in Trowbridge next week.

Go! Fish, which is the brainchild of Trowbridge Chamber of Commerce and Town Team, has been developed to help youngsters aged between 13-19 through a series of workshops to cover issues such as interview techniques, CV writing, marketing, business presentations and leadership skills.

David Baker who is leading the programme said: “It is a partnership of education, businesses and organisations and it is about getting children and the parents involved in our programme. It will be a one-stop shop that will be supporting kids who want to get into business.

“It is not only about getting the youngsters ready for work and to see if they want to own a business but it is also about supporting the community which is a key thing about Go! Fish.”

The patron of the programme is Baroness Scott of Bybrook OBE and is funded by Wiltshire Council.

Trowbridge entrepreneur Jordan Daykin who was the youngest recipient of investment on Dragon’s Den at just 19-years-old for his GripIt Fixings business is also on board and will sponsor the Young Entrepreneur of the Year with the winner receiving a prize.

Mr Daykin will be on the judging panel along with Office Evolution and Hitachi Commercial Vehicles.

Youngsters will then be able to go onto present their business ideas to the public at the Teenage Market in the town centre following the success of last year’s event. It is expected to take place at the end of May.

Baroness Scott said: “I’m delighted to help support this initiative. We have a lot of talented young people in this county and this will give them the support they need to help develop their skills. It will also provide a platform to express their ideas and creativity which I’m sure will be a huge help to them for when they embark on their future endeavours”.

The launch event takes place next Thursday at the Civic Centre.