During 2025/26, pupils at Inverkeithing High School played a leading role in delivering a pupil-led enterprise initiative through the Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) Ambassador Programme. The project, known as “Bagz and More”, was designed to build confidence, leadership and entrepreneurial skills while supporting the local community through fundraising and practical support.

Delivered through partnerships including DYW Fife, Skillfluence and third sector organisations such as SEAL Dunfermline, the programme gave young people the opportunity to design and run their own enterprise. Using the Big Bag Challenge platform, ambassadors created an interactive games and entertainment business, which was delivered at key school events including Parents’ Evenings, the Careers Fayre and the Christmas Fayre.

Through activities such as tombolas and interactive games, pupils raised funds and awareness for SEAL Dunfermline, a local charity supporting children and families across West Fife. Alongside fundraising, the project also responded directly to local need by providing free bags of essential items—including hygiene products and stationery—to more vulnerable pupils, helping to reduce barriers to wellbeing and participation in school life.

A key feature of the programme was the opportunity for ambassadors to extend their learning beyond the classroom. Pupils took part in the Edinburgh Futures Institute Start Hackathon, where they worked with entrepreneurs to develop and pitch a business idea. Their work was described as “commendable” by judges, helping to build confidence and raise aspirations for future careers in enterprise and business.

The impact of the programme has been clear and wide-ranging. Pupils developed transferable skills including teamwork, communication and problem solving, while also increasing their visibility and leadership within the school. One S4 ambassador noted, “People recognise the ambassadors now,” reflecting the growing profile of the programme. Another pupil highlighted the inclusive nature of the activities, describing them as “a fun way to learn about the charity and DYW” and an opportunity to feel more included.

The project directly supports the Plan for Fife priorities of community wealth building and economic recovery. It also contributes to ambitions around improving educational attainment, increasing employment opportunities and ensuring communities and individuals are more involved in shaping local services. By giving young people real responsibility and a platform to lead, the programme helps develop the skills and confidence needed for future employment.

Looking ahead, the programme has established a sustainable model, with current ambassadors actively recruiting younger pupils to continue the work and build on its success year on year. There are also plans to expand links with employers and third sector partners, creating more opportunities for real-world enterprise experiences and helping to scale the approach across other schools in Fife.