Business simulations in schools: Unlocking real-world confidence
How can schools prepare students for a future where business decisions are fast-moving, interconnected, and complex? More teachers are turning to using business simulations in schools as they are a powerful tool to let learners experience entrepreneurship first-hand in a safe, dynamic environment.
At SimVenture, our online business simulation, Evolution, is already being used by Cambridge schools around the world. Instead of simply memorising theory, students step into the role of decision-makers. They run virtual businesses, test strategies, and learn from outcomes in real-time.
Here’s how three schools have brought Evolution into their classrooms and the impact it has had on students and teachers alike.
Oakwood Academy, Harare, Zimbabwe
At Oakwood Academy, AS & A Level Business students replaced textbook learnin with live decision-making in Evolution.
Suddenly, business theory wasn’t abstract – it was something to experience.
One teacher captured the shift perfectly:
“It’s no longer just about learning concepts; it’s about living them.” – Jasper Nyaunga, Business Educator, Oakwood Acadmy
Students grew in confidence, teamwork thrived, and lessons moved from passive note-taking to active collaboration.
Read the full Oakwood Academy case study in our free download to see the impact first-hand.
King’s College International School, Bangkok, Thailand
At King’s College International Schools, Evolution was introduced into Year 10 IGCSE Economics classes.
For students, the simulation turned abstract ideas into practical challenges. Instead of memorising, students were problem-solving.
“What the students have now are real-life type of challenges that they wouldn’t have from textbooks or PowerPoints.” – Paul Denton, Business Educator
Teachers reported stronger engagement, better formative assessment results, and even language gains for EAL learners, who expanded their business vocabulary in context.
African Leadership Academy, Johannesburg, South Africa
At the African Leadership Academy, entrepreneurship is central to education. Evolution allowed students to apply theory directly to their ventures, linking classroom learning with real-world practice.
Dr. Everisto Mugocha explained:
“Evolution makes learning natural. It makes teaching more enjoyable… learners are not just passing exams, they’re asking how they can use this knowledge for their own business.”
Students became more engaged, more confident, and more willing to take ownership of their learning journey.
Read the full African Leadership Academy case study in our free download for insights into impact.
Why schools are choosing business simulations
These three schools highlight how business simulations in schools can:
- Build student confidence through applied learning
- Improve collaboration, communication, and leadership
- Support teachers with more dynamic and effective lessons
- Bring real-world relevance into the classroom
With Evolution, students have a safe space to take risks, make mistakes, and learn by doing – building the skills they’ll need in higher education, careers, and beyond.
Get the full case studies
Want to see exactly how Oakwood Academy, King’s College International School Bangkok, and African Leadership Academy used Evolution in their classrooms?
Download the three case studies here to explore the full picture – including teacher insights, student feedback, and practical examples of how schools integrated Evolution. Simply complete the form below and a member of our team will email you three PDF case studies to explore.
These case studies don’t give “best use” instructions – instead, they show the real-world impact and provide inspiration for how your school could adopt business simulation in the classroom.
