Uplifting news from Oxford
30/11/2025 — Oxford · 3 min read
What inspiring steps is the Oxford Covered Market taking to nurture young entrepreneurs?
The Oxford Covered Market, a cherished local landmark, is playing a pivotal role in fostering the next generation of entrepreneurs through an innovative mentorship programme. By pairing eager students with seasoned market traders, this initiative is not only educating future business leaders but also fortifying the sense of community within Oxford.
In an inspiring move that highlights the spirit of collaboration and education, the Oxford Covered Market has launched a mentorship programme aimed at nurturing the entrepreneurial skills of young students in the city. This initiative, which began earlier this month, seeks to bridge the gap between education and real-world business experience by connecting students from local schools with experienced market traders. The goal is to provide these young minds with practical insights into running a business while fostering creativity, resilience, and a strong sense of community.
The programme has already attracted a diverse group of participants, including high school students from various schools across Oxford. Each student is paired with a trader who best matches their interests, whether it be in food, crafts, or retail. Through weekly sessions, students get hands-on experience by assisting their mentors in daily operations, learning about customer service, inventory management, and marketing strategies. This real-world exposure complements their academic knowledge and helps them understand the intricacies of sustaining a successful business.
One of the key figures behind this initiative is Sarah Reynolds, a long-time vendor in the market known for her vibrant produce stall. Sarah, who has been part of the market community for over two decades, believes that sharing her experiences and knowledge with young people is a way to give back to the community that has supported her for so many years. "It's incredibly rewarding to see the excitement and enthusiasm from these students," Sarah shared. "They bring fresh ideas and perspectives, and in turn, they learn the value of hard work and dedication."
The programme is already showing promising results. Emily Thompson, a 16-year-old student from Cherwell School, expressed her excitement about being part of the initiative. "I've always been interested in starting my own business, and working with the traders here has given me invaluable insights into what it really takes. It's more than just selling products; it's about connecting with people and building relationships."
The Oxford Covered Market has long been a symbol of community spirit and resilience. By engaging young people in this mentorship programme, the market not only strengthens its own future but also contributes to the broader economic development of Oxford. The initiative has received enthusiastic support from local schools and business leaders, who recognise its potential to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Looking ahead, the organisers hope to expand the programme to include workshops and guest speakers, creating even more opportunities for students to learn and grow. As the festive season approaches, the market is also planning a special event where students will have the chance to showcase their newfound skills by setting up their own stalls for a day.
This forward-thinking approach by the Oxford Covered Market is a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives. By nurturing young talent and fostering an entrepreneurial spirit, the market ensures that its legacy will continue to thrive in the hands of future generations.