Pupil Excellence in Business ‘Dragons' Den’ Competition 2020

An update from Mrs Pritchard on the Business Department’s Summer Term Pupil Competition.

Prior to the lockdown, the Business Department was excited to organise the first Lower Sixth Business Competition for the Summer Term in the style of the BBC2 programme Dragons' Den.  However, such is life, a global crisis loomed, and a Hodgson Hall day event was not to be. Instead, Mrs Pritchard organised a weekly Zoom activity for pupils in all years, cumulating with a grand finale this Tuesday.

With thanks to our judges: Max McClure from Hays Recruitment (also a Radbrook Old Salopian), Jessica Barac (Revolicious), Alison Velacott (Highlight PR) and Adam Pritchard (Pomegreat) for their enthusiasm, support and insightful questions.

Candela (4^th form, Mosers Hall) and Alice C (4^th form, The Grove) put forward a strong presentation for her Suter product, a new ‘all round’ support for athletes with pulled muscles, this prize won Best Effort alongside Adrian L’s (U6th, Ingrams) Cushi chair, the chair built for all-day comfort and support especially during the Covid crisis.

Steven B (5^th form, Ingrams), Lem M (5^th form, Ingrams) and Yuhi N (4^th form Ingrams) won Best Service Prize for their ‘Point Zero Catering’ product – dinner parties with different themes held in your own home, tailored towards the High-End market with premium prices according to quality.

Theo P (5^th form Radbrook) and James M (5th form, Severn Hill) won Best Product Award for their Multo V – multifunctional pen.  A cunning solution to the weighted down blazer pocket this product was a five-in-one stationery cure aimed at a student’s budget and fitting many student needs.

The Best Overall idea prize which also had the best presentation was won by Seb (L6th, Ingrams) and Winston (L6th, Ingrams) for their well-researched ‘Twistie’ ice-cream vending machine idea.  Perfect for 24hour ice cream needs and a suitable investment for all ice cream providers, especially for countries with a warmer climate.  The two Dragons who work in the Food and Drink industry were highly impressed because nothing like this has ever been seen in the British Isles and recent research results suggest the British no longer just eat ice creams in the summer!

All students worked exceptionally hard, showed strong insight, and presented their ideas passionately.  This was demonstrated in their strong responses to questions, the detail provided in their promotions, and their stamina throughout a two-hour Zoom judging competition at the end of a busy day full of lessons.

A thoroughly rewarding activity. Well done to all involved!