Young entrepreneurs at a Devon primary school have turned a £50 investment into first place glory after impressing judges with their business skills.
Pupils at Rydon Primary, part of Education South West, have been named winners of the Rotary Newton Abbot Young Apprentice Challenge 2025–2026.
Just before Christmas, year three children took part in the enterprise initiative organised by the Rotary Club of Newton Abbot. The challenge saw pupils given £50 to invest in a small business project with the aim of generating a profit.
Using their investment creatively, the children designed and produced a range of items to sell at their stall during the school’s Winter Wonderland Christmas Fair. They also organised a Christmas colouring competition to help boost their fundraising efforts. Their work resulted in the class finishing in the top three for overall funds raised, securing a place in the final.
On Sunday, February 22, a selection of Year 3 pupils represented their year group at the finals, held at Teign School . Accompanied by their teachers, Miss Thomas and Miss Barker, the children presented their project to members of Rotary and a representative from ShelterBox. They explained how they had planned, organised and run their stall, highlighting their financial understanding and entrepreneurial skills.
(Credit: Education South West)
The pupils were awarded first place in the competition and received a £50 Amazon voucher in recognition of their achievement.
Danny Brown, headteacher at Rydon Primary, said: “Throughout the project, the children demonstrated exceptional enthusiasm and commitment.
“Alongside strengthening their mathematical knowledge, they developed valuable life skills including teamwork, communication, problem solving and perseverance.
“This fantastic accomplishment highlights the creativity, determination and collaborative spirit of Rydon Primary’s young learners. A huge congratulations to all involved on a truly well deserved success.”
Matthew Shanks, chief executive at Education South West, said: “This is a tremendous achievement for the pupils at Rydon Primary.
“Opportunities like the Rotary Young Apprentice Challenge allow children to apply their learning in meaningful, real world contexts. To see Year 3 pupils planning, budgeting and presenting in this way is inspiring.”
