Seven ambitious Barnsley College students have taken their business dreams to the next level, pitching live to a panel of ‘investors’ in a thrilling Dragons’ Den-style finale designed to unlock further funding and professional support.
The event marked the conclusion of this year’s Barnsley College Futurepreneur challenge, an initiative designed to equip budding entrepreneurs with the tools, funding, and confidence to turn their ideas into reality.
Each student completed a series of enterprise-based challenges throughout the programme, earning £200 in initial funding to launch their ventures. Building on that foundation, they then pitched for additional investment of up to £500 in total, with £100 offered by each Dragon.
The panel of “Dragons” brought together local business and community leaders with a passion for nurturing future talent.
Hayley Allsopp, vice principal of Curriculum and Student Experience, joined entrepreneur and motivational speaker Tom Dickinson, alongside Nathan Winch, chief executive of Winch & Co, and Andrew Harrod, editor-in-chief of Barnsley Chronicle. Completing the panel was former Barnsley College Art and Design student Eloise Clarkson, now a thriving entrepreneur thanks to the College’s enterprise programme.
Eloise catalysed her business, ExpressionEl, which handcrafts unique crochet pieces, after gaining support through the initiative then known as iTrust - now Futurepreneurs. Her return as a guest judge offered students a powerful example of what’s possible through dedication, creativity, and the right support.
She said: “It was special to come back as a judge and have my journey recognised, it reminded me how much support like this helped me get started. I think it meant a lot for the students to see someone closer to their age up there. It shows that the dreams they have might be closer than they think.”
The atmosphere was electric as the students presented their businesses, covering everything from sustainable fashion to tailor-made Disney holiday experiences. Judges praised their professionalism, creativity and confidence.
Hayley Allsopp described the event as “insightful and inspiring,” adding, “I was really impressed by every student. The hard work they had put in was clear in each of their presentations. They all had strong, unique ideas, and I cannot wait to see how their businesses grow!”
