A GROUP of students from a Bradford school have earned a place in a regional final after winning a county competition by showcasing their entrepreneurial skills.

In a Dragon’s Den type scenario, the Dixons Allerton Academy pupils were required to set up a ‘live’ company.

The team decided to create a ‘No Touch Keyring’ named Purest DAA to help combat the spread of Covid-19.

They were very keen to do something to help their communities contain the spread of the virus, so came up with this innovative idea.

And the idea allowed them to claim the title of 2021 Young Enterprise County champions.

They will now go forward to compete in the Yorkshire and Humber Regional final of the Young Enterprise Awards to be held today.

In what has been a tough year for the youngsters with Covid-19 restrictions, the students have worked hard to develop a business concept and take their product from inception to a virtual launch. 

They had to learn the basics of business strategy including marketing, new product development, teamwork, presentation, finance and selling skills.

Amir Hafidh, Area Manager for Young Enterprise West Yorkshire, says: "The students have worked exceptionally hard this year through the most difficult of circumstances to produce a profitable, yet socially-conscious product.

"The skills they have developed will stand them in good stead going forward, whether that's through continued education, work or training.

"We couldn't be prouder of the journey they have been on as well as the resilience and enterprise they have shown."

The Young Enterprise Company Programme supports teams of students in participating schools, helping them develop their commercial skills into viable businesses that are judged against national criteria.