Budding entrepreneurs at a Wickford school have scooped three top awards for their business brains at a competition.

Year 10 pupils from Beauchamps High School proved they are businessmen and women in the making at the South West Essex Business Company of the Year competition held at The Basildon Centre.

Groups of pupils gained the awards after they were set the challenge of setting up their own businesses and making it a success.

Homemade jewellery, greeting cards and a tuck shop were among the ideas of the 14 and 15-year-old pupils at the Beauchamps Drive school.

All students entering the competition had to write a company report, submit financial company accounts and do a presentation to local business representatives, district councillors and parents.

The school picked up awards and £100 cheques in three categories: South West Essex Company of the Year and best accounts, most environmentally aware and enterprising company plus best manufacturing company.

Two of the companies called PYNC and Great Expectations are now going onto the competition's county finals on Tuesday, May 25, at the Central Baptist Church in Chelmsford.

Deputy head teacher, Sharon Martinson, said: "Students were extremely proud of their achievements and learned a great deal from the experience."

Published Thursday May 20, 2004

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