BUDDING young entrepreneurs in part of Bradford put their talents to the test during a long-running enterprise project.

Year 3 pupils at Green Lane Primary School, Manningham, Bradford, combined their skills to set up a ‘business’ and decided to create their own cafe for parents.

The youngsters created the menu, prepared the food and served it up to their families at the cafe.

Parents were not charged, but the pupils’ entrepreneurial minds were put to the test in calculating the cost of raw materials when putting together the food selection.

Their business acumen was first tested at local success story, Cafe Regal, where owner Umaad Sharif, affectionately known as ‘Maddy’, tutored pupils in the art of sales, articulation and etiquette.

Maddy then attended the children’s cafe to see how his prodigies got on. He said: “It’s good to see a lot more confidence in the kids. I’m really pleased and proud to be able to support and do our bit for the local community.”

The use of language in a productive way is something teachers at Green Lane Primary School are also keen to promote.

The menu offered a range of foods for “customers”, including Bruschetta for a starter, Arabic Lentil Soup as a main, and cupcakes for dessert. Crackers and hummus, as well as stuffed roasted peppers, were also available.

The children took to the experience as waitrons by taking orders on notepads, being efficient and ensuring a professional service was given.

Councillor Imran Khan, Bradford Council’s deputy leader and portfolio holder for education, employment and skills, said: “It’s really positive that the school have taken this initiative to develop the skills of young children and teach them how to be entrepreneurs.”

He added: “It’s really important that families support the cafe as it will encourage community and parental involvement and provide these young children with ambition and aspiration going forward.”

The journey began when pupils showed a desire to learn how to cook a full-fledged meal for their parents after a simple lesson about the growth process of tomatoes.

The initiative was the brainchild of teacher, Mr Hassan, who said the event had exceeded all his expectations particularly with the amount of people from the community who turned up.

He added: “Bearing in mind their (the kids) background and never having had this experience before, they were exemplary with their manners and articulation.”

A parent, Kerrie Robinson, 31, of Wibsey said: “The food was beautiful. I hope they do this event again – it’s gone too quick.”

This was a feeling that was echoed by many and Mr Hassan is certain the success can be turned into something more.

He said: “Lots of parents have asked for it again – perhaps this isn’t a one off. Maybe we’ll try a bigger venue, or more dishes.”