On Friday March 22, the three year 10 Business Management classes under the steely gaze of Mr Hewet Mrs Max and Mr Glenister set up their businesses in the Great Space, creating a market, selling everything from cakes to video game competitions.

They had prepared this venture as a part of their course over the previous 2 weeks, preparation that included decision-making on product, pricing, advertising and presentation.

As a practical exercise in contemporary capitalism, it was a very successful afternoon, and the students are to be congratulated for their efforts (almost everything sold!).

Thanks to the year 7 (and other!) students who acted as "customers" for the afternoon.

With customers drafted from classes, the market forces soon swelled into a commercial hubbub that would have made Marx cry.

Predictably, most of the businesses chose to offer food and drink to their demographics - and the levels of sales confirmed their business strategies.

The marketing strategies were various and energetic.

At least the customers seemed satisfied.

Some stalls moved faster than others at times.

Presentation is everything in the marketplace.

A happy capitalist doing business.

Biscuits and cakes

Muffins and chips

Sharp business practices included advertising, signage, discounts and specials.

This could be the start of another business empire, but I think they'd need at least two Eskies.

And at the end of the day, most stalls were sold out.