BUDDING young entrepreneurs in Cockwood have been challenged to create their own business.

Class 1 pupils at Cockwood School have used their creativity and initiative in an Enterprise Project for the Mark £5 Grow scheme, part of the Virgin Money programme.

Each child was asked to design a product and develop a business plan and the project culminated in a Christmas Enterprise Fair, which the budding business owners promoted through various channels, including social media, posters, and leaflets.

A school spokesman said: ‘The whole event demonstrated the incredible support of our school community.

‘This enterprise project holds a special place in their school calendar, serving as a vital platform for pupils to acquire essential life skills.

‘From budgeting to understanding profit and loss, the experience has been invaluable.

‘Over the course of a half-term, pupils demonstrated remarkable resilience and patience as they produced prototypes, made adaptations, and refined their products.

‘The Christmas Enterprise Fair was a resounding success, bustling with activity and showcasing an impressive array of seasonal products.’

The children produced a range of items including aromatic candles, sweet treats, handcrafted pottery, crocheted bees, hair accessories and homemade chilli jam.

Dawlish town councillor and chairman of Teignbridge Council Cllr Rosie Dawson was invited to the fair.

The spokesman said: ‘Her presence added an extra layer of excitement as she engaged with our young entrepreneurs, asking insightful questions about their products and processes.

‘This interaction not only boosted the pupils' confidence but also gave them a taste of real-world business presentations.

‘This project has been an incredible learning experience for our pupils.’

The success of this project extended far beyond their expectations as the Class 1 pupils made a profit of more than £1,100.

The funds raised will contribute significantly towards their residential trip planned for June 2025.