Pupils from Wisewood School showed that they were up to the task of managing the hospitality in a professional setting when the Sheffield and District Fair Play League Cup Final, sponsored by Bell and Buxton Solicitors, was played at Bramall Lane earlier this month.

The event was combined with the Sports Enterprise Challenge, which provides students from local schools with an opportunity to experience what working in a professional setting involves.

Pupils in Year 10 had worked with staff mentors from Montgomery Leisure Services and Sheffield United Football Club in preparation for the day and the work will contribute to their Btec qualification.

The Wisewood pupils had designed invites and menus as well as organising pre-match entertainment to ensure that guests on the day were well looked after. On the day the pupils were responsible for meeting guests and running a 'Spot the Ball' as well as a 'Man of the Match' competition. They also assisted with a raffle and an auction and supported Sheffield Children's Hospital with their involvement on the day.

The highlight for many of the guests was a visit to the Blades 'Legends of the Lane' with pupils taking the tour. The group of pupils doing this were able to point out some of the more notable exhibits and share some examples Sheffield's sporting firsts.

One of the pupils was confident enough to announce the 'Man of the Match' over the PA system and also present the 'Spot the Ball' winner with their prize.

Headteacher of Wisewood School, Diane McKinlay, commented: "It is always valuable for students to be able to practice their skills and to develop their knowledge and awareness of all the processes necessary to organise a successful event of this nature. I know they appreciated this opportunity. I thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon, seeing our students operating in a new context is always a pleasure."