The Year 5 Candelo Public School student already runs his own business, installing candy machines in pubs around the local area.

Even more remarkably, Oliver has decided to donate the money raised to his school.

The 10-year-old presented principal Suezanne Bourke with a $100 cheque recently which was gratefully received.

Oliver’s candy machine business started last year when he decided that he wanted to make some extra pocket money.

After consultation with his father Jason, who encouraged him to pursue his idea, Oliver decided to start a candy machine business.

The pair then ordered a machine over the internet and approached local businesses about allowing his product to be used on their premises.

Oliver said he was happy with how his business was progressing.

“I started the idea because I wanted to give something back into the community,” he said.

“My parents were looking for more investment property and it made me think ‘why can’t I make some money like they do’?

“I now have machines at the Candelo, Wolumla and Tathra Pubs and the Three Willows in Pambula.

“I’m about to place another one at the Commercial Hotel too.”

Mr Simpson said his son negotiates all deals by himself with interested businesses.

“Oliver works out an agreement to put the machines inside the place which is generally 15 per cent rent,” he said.

“Oliver does all the talking by himself so I think that is good for building communication skills.

“It’s helped him generate income while at school and he is learning business skills for life as well.

“He has made some very mature decisions and Oliver is accountable for everything.”

Mr Simpsons said he was caught off guard when Oliver told him his plans to donate the money raised to his school.

“I had a bit of a tear in my eye when he told me what he wanted to do with the money,” he said.

“He came up with the idea himself and did what he wanted to do with it.

“The biggest change for Oliver has been his mindset and although he still acts like a normal kid, there are times when he can switch to business person mode and that makes me very proud.

“He is going to receive more from the community than he puts in eventually but he hasn’t done any of this for the kudos.”

Ms Bourke said Oliver will have a big influence on how the money is spent.

“Oliver will form a committee at school to come up with ideas of how to spend the money,” she said.

“His parents have done a tremendous job with his financial skills and awareness and we are very grateful.”