Photo: Old Pocklingtonian Lucy Scarah (00-07) in her store 'Helson Street' at Spark York

Lower Sixth BTEC Information and Communications Technology (ICT) students had a wonderful afternoon visiting the new business venture ‘Spark York’.  This is a collection of independent local businesses housed in a series of abstract container units that offer a vibrant mix of food, drink, shops, a community theatre, a brewery, art and more. All the businesses have predominantly used social media to publicise their ventures and opportunities.

The students were welcomed by Old Pocklingtonian Lucy Scarah, who operates a wonderful store named ‘Helson Street’ offering a unique take on rustic pieces and floristry.  

The visit gave students the opportunity to talk to Lucy and social media coordinator for Spark, Jo Little, and learn more about the practical applications and impact of social media for small businesses. They explained in detail how Instagram and Facebook in particular have been integral to their success, with popular posts ‘trending’ and getting ‘likes’ to get messages out and raise the profile of both Spark and individual businesses. They also discussed the use of ‘hashtags’ to gain more likes, and the power of the perfect photograph.

The interviews conducted by the students supported the social media BTEC unit perfectly and the students all came back buzzing with ideas and discussions that will lead them well into their next unit of work.