BUSINESS acorns will be planted at York St John College this spring.

The college aims to smooth a path for people wanting to start their own ventures, by launching a free six-month course called the Acorn Programme.

Starting in April, it is aimed at people who are thinking about becoming self-employed, those who have already made the commitment but want expert help, or successful sole traders looking to expand their businesses.

James Walker, of the college's research and enterprise office, said: "Over a six-month period our Acorns will meet small business entrepreneurs who identify with the issues that new ventures face. They will also receive tuition from subject experts.

"Topics covered include the work-life balance, market research, accounts and cash flow, the legal aspects of start-up and writing a business plan.

"We will also involve staff from the college's school of arts, who will give practical advice about marketing tools such as promotional videos, and experts from sports science and psychology will discuss health and lifestyle issues."

The first phase of the programme takes the form of fortnightly three-hour evening sessions in college, by which time participants will have developed action plans for the countdown to launching or refocusing their ventures.

Phase two will have a flexible structure to encourage the Acorns to work one-to-one with business mentors, refining their ideas and practices.

The Acorn Programme, funded by the Higher Education Funding Council, arose from an enterprise day held at the college in November, bringing together entrepreneurs and business support organisations from across York and North Yorkshire.

Mr Walker said: "It was a great success, attracting many delegates who were thinking of setting up in business.

"Someone who has already gone through the process is a fantastic source of information for anyone thinking of being self-employed. They can advise about the positive aspects as well as the potential pitfalls.

"Formalising this contact and making sure all the issues are covered is the thinking behind the Acorn Programme."

Applicants for places on the programme, which will start in April and September, should phone Jill Graham at the college at 01904 716679. Informal interviews are planned for three days starting next Monday.

Updated: 11:28 Monday, February 07, 2005