Key Group: Boys R Us

Boys R Us

Three young boys from South Durham joined forces for their Key Project as they sought to improve customer care for young people in their local area.

After making friends at School, Corrie, Riley and Tyler, aged 14, decided to begin their Key adventure to learn new skills and experience new things together.

After realising that there was a lot of alternative sports opportunities for girls but not much for boys in their school, the group decided to do something about it and organise their own sports sessions. The group had to research unique sporting ideas before asking classmates to vote on their favourites. This was a big step for the three young men as they needed to step outside of their comfort zone and approach people the usually wouldn’t.

Once the sport was decided the group sourced quotes and tried to secure a top price. After much negotiation the three young men managed to secure a deal to hire bubble football for the entire year 8 male population within their £250 budget. So with a yes from panel, the group went ahead and had an energising time.

With a successful Stage 1 under their belt, Boys R Us, came together once again to think of a new project. With all three boys learning about business at school they decided they wanted to further their entrepreneurial business skills through their Stage 2 Key Project.

Concerned about how local companies treat young people, Boys R Us, decided to set out in search of youth friendly businesses on their Key Project. The group developed their budget to visit a number of local establishments with food and snacks, travel and print costs all included. At panel, the group had to overcome their nerves and fears as they pitched their idea to not only another Key Facilitator but a local councillor too. This was a big step for the boys but one they excelled at.

So with their new found confidence and a yes from panel, Boy R Us got started with their Stage 2 Key Project. Corrie, Riley and Tyler covertly visited local companies and secretly rated them on their service to young people. They visited a range of small local restaurants as well as big known brands like Pizza Hut to see what kind of reception they received form the staff.

After visiting, the group came together and compared notes before sending the company a certificate and letter to let them know how they performed. They also rated their top performing businesses in their local area and offered advice and guidance to help the businesses improve.