After sitting their SATS, Year 6 children from High Beeches Junior School face a panel in the school’s own Dragons’ Den to pitch their business ideas.

The children are bidding for the chance to run a stall at their Summer Fair in July. Rotary in Harpenden had invited three successful business people to become Dragons for the day, to judge the business plans and to award prizes to the best three teams.

Before the event Rotary in Harpenden had visited the school to brief the children, to provide more information and encourage the generation of ideas. An outline of what might be in their propositions was provided – including how to define their products or services, their likely costs and profits, and the main risks and challenges they would face in satisfying their customers.

Led by their teachers, the Year 6 response was amazing. A wide range of ideas came forward, demonstrating their imagination and creativity. Teams presented with enthusiasm, leaving the Dragons with a real challenge in picking the prize winners.

Head Teacher John Walker commented, ‘Alongside developing an understanding of enterprise and business, it was an excellent opportunity for the children to practise team working and communication skills, building self-confidence and supporting their transition to secondary school. The contrast to classroom learning allowed them to work more independently. We would definitely like to make this a regular feature of our Year 6 programme.’