The Apprentice’s Aaron Willis has visited a local school to offer advice and inspire young business hopefuls.
AdvertisementArchbishop Temple Church of England High School in Fulwood welcomed the local businessman yesterday (Wednesday 23 March), where he gave a talk to pupils studying GCSE Business.
After twelve years in the RAF, Aaron noticed a gap in the security services market in his local area, so he set up a business within the residential sector before moving into hospitality and commercial.
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Aaron said: “You are very privileged to study business. I’ve looked at the course outline, and it is excellent. We didn’t have a course like this when I was at school.”
The businessman, based in Buckshaw Village, offered pupils advice on starting in business, dealing with negativity from other people, building confidence and self-belief, the benefits of working hard and marketing and promotion on a budget.
Year 11 pupil Rohit said: “Aaron’s talk helped me decide that I would like to pursue business in the future – he was also very entertaining!”
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Pupils and staff were eager to learn more about his time on The Apprentice.
Aaron spent several weeks in the process before Lord Sugar fired him before the penultimate episode in the series, the brutal interviews episode.
Year 11 pupil Olivia said: “Aaron’s perseverance and inspiring nature were enjoyable. I especially liked hearing how he set up his business.
“He was very determined and didn’t let any failures stop him!”
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Aaron offered insights into what it is like behind the scenes without revealing who receives Lord Sugar’s investment in the finale, due to be aired this evening at 9pm on BBC One.
Mrs Mooney, Head of Business, said: “It was fantastic that Aaron came to our school to speak with the pupils and inspire them.
“It gives them a great insight on how the curriculum relates to the ‘real world’, and we are very grateful! Thank you to Mr Gray for organising such a wonderful experience.
“Pupils studying business experience a broad and rich curriculum, enhanced by visitors such as Aaron and are very lucky!”
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Interest in Aaron’s business, Vulcan Security, skyrocketed after his appearance on ‘The Apprentice You’re Fired’ when he outlined his business plan to host Tom Allen.
Moving forward, Aaron, a keen mental health advocate, is helping ex-servicemen and women transition from the military to civilian life, offering job interviews and positions within his security company.
In the future, he would like to grow his business, expanding nationally over time.
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Mr Gray, Head of Year 11 and Careers, said: “It was a fantastic, enlightening experience to meet Aaron this morning.
“His talk was not just interesting but inspirational. I think it will help motivate more of our pupils to become entrepreneurs.”
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