Compass House Pop-up Shop
‘Equality Through Enterprise’
Students from specialist schools across Leeds are spreading festive cheer this week with the return of their Christmas pop-up shop in Kirkgate Market.
‘Compass House’ will be open Monday 11th to Friday 15th December 2023, 10am till 2pm and the students will be selling beautifully handcrafted gifts such as ornaments, reindeer food, decorations and much more – all priced at £5 or less.
The shop is part of a work experience project for students with special educational needs and disabilities, coordinated by Leeds City Council. Its aim is to achieve equality through enterprise.
In 2018, students from a range of specialist schools in Leeds planned, named and promoted the pop-up shop and handcrafted all of the items for sale. After its success they agreed they would continue to open their pop-up annually with Leeds Kirkgate Market agreeing to provide the unit free of charge.
It is a fantastic example of how Leeds Kirkgate Market as a Child Friendly Leeds Ambassador is working in partnership to improve opportunities and outcomes for the children and young people of Leeds. The students have been involved in all planning meetings and making key decisions as well as making all the handcrafted gifts.
Quotes by young people:
“I enjoyed speaking to people about the shop, and giving them a flyer”
“I am looking forward to going to Kirkgate Market to sell the things we have made”
“I love everyone being in the Christmas spirit”
