A group of budding entrepreneurs from Nelson and Colne College are preparing to head down to the Big Smoke after making it through to the finals of a national contest.

A Level Business students Amelia Ward, Sara McConville, Reece Hewitson and Christopher Walker have reached the final eight in the Barclay’s Built For Business Competition – beating off tough competition from across the country.

Due to their success, they have now been invited to attend a “Dragons’ Den” style event at Barclay’s Head Office, in Canary Wharf, London, on Friday, June 12th.

They will have to pitch to a panel of judges and answer questions about their business “Krunchdown” – a healthy, quick alternative to a canteen style breakfast for college and school students in the form of a cereal vending machine.

Amelia said: “I am absolutely delighted to have this chance to go down to Canary Wharf and meet such important people. The idea that we actually got into the national finals is just mind blowing and I am very proud of myself and the team I worked with.”

Reece added: “I’m excited for the opportunity to win the Built For Business Competition. I look forward to going to London to present our business idea, and I’m incredibly confident we have what it takes to win.”

And Business lecturer Jane Prince said: “Our students have put together a marketing plan, financial forecasts and carried out market research to ascertain the needs and wants of their target market.

“They have done this all in a one hour a week enrichment session called pre-professional for budding entrepreneurs. They have worked very hard as a team, drawing on their diverse skills and qualities.”

Nelson and Colne College currently boasts a 100% pass rate in A Level Business, with former students having progressed on to some of the UK’s top universities.

The College also has a Business Career Academy, excellent links with local companies and after completing their studies, students also have the option of applying for one of our Apprenticeships with some of the region’s best businesses.

For more information about Business at NCC contact 01282 440272.