The development of entrepreneurship at school: the Spanish experience

Abstract

Purpose The main purpose of this research paper is to encourage entrepreneurship and creativity among primary school pupils than they acquire entrepreneurial skills through running a business. Design/methodology/approach A pilot experience has been structured into three large phases: 1) Analysis of the starting situation; 2) Production of the materials and their application in the classroom; 3) Final evaluation. In order to evaluate this experience, the primary school pupils (8-12-years-old) were interviewed and a questionnaire completed. Findings The overall results have been satisfactory and indicated a positive participant reaction to the project that has improved entrepreneurial competencies and the future potential for business start-up. Research limitations/implications The research respondents were drawn from one region of Spain, and the pilot experience has been carried out in the Rural Schools Grouped Together (in Spanish: “Colegio Rural Agrupado” or CRA). Practical implications Recommendations are offered which could help the entrepreneurship education stakeholders increase the effectiveness of entrepreneurship education programs (EEPs) and actions aimed at promoting firm creation in this area. Originality/value The paper contributes to knowledge by adding to a limited literature examining the impact of entrepreneurship education within the 8-12 primary school age sector.