Over the past four years, HSBC has supported Scoops, the educational project for secondary students to learn how to run a business according to a cooperative model, with a sponsorship to the tune of almost €40,000. The latest instalment, of €10,500, was presented by Godfrey Swain, HSBC's Head of Personal Financial Services, to Mary Rose Meli, Scoops Project Coordinator.

The Scoops project, now in its 13th year, is owned by the Cooperatives Board and sponsored by HSBC. Its aim is to involve students between the age of 12 and 15 in business initiatives based on cooperative principles. This year, 23 schools have participated in the Scoops project, producing a myriad of products, from hand-painted plant pots to decorated frames, mugs and other memorabilia. Twelve of the participating schools also exhibited and sold their wares during a fair in Valletta. The Scoops Fair was also sponsored by the Scoops Event Sponsor, the Central Cooperatives Fund (CCF).

Throughout the scholastic year, students and educators explore themes related to running a business based on a cooperative model and develop sales and marketing skills.

"The Scoops project offers an excellent learning platform for students aiming to go into business in the future," said Mr Swain. "Learning how to be creative, work as a team and testing products and services ideas for consumers promise a solid foundation for aspiring entrepreneurs."

"With HSBC as the main sponsor, the Scoops project made a leap in quality," said Ms Meli. "Students aiming to build a career in business learn how to structure ideas according to business organisation models. HSBC is an excellent role model to follow and identify with."