DELIGHTED pupils have been crowned winners of a tough business challenge.

Bromfords School and Sixth Form students were named winners of the Aspirations in Business Event, organised by the Institute of Directors.

Pupils had to draw up an action plan to save businesses with falling sales to win the event at Anglia Ruskin University.

Pupils got to the finals by competing in regional events against high schools, grammar schools and colleges from across Essex.

They were coached by Simon Fordham, co-founder of business mentoring group the Fordham Henderson Partnership, which helped pupils develop their business acumen.

Eight pupils were awarded with prizes, including the chance to attend the Institute of Directors’ Christmas breakfast at Stock Brook Country Club with entrepreneurs and business people. They also won a trip to the Royal London Group headquarters.

Jane Oglesby, curriculum team leader for business studies and economics at Bromfords, said: “The presentations from all of the pupils were of an exceptionally high standard.

“I am very proud of our group of Year 12 pupils who have developed a wide range of skills and experience thanks to the Institute of Directors.

“The event provided pupils with an outstanding opportunity to learn from business experts in the Essex and London regions.”

Tim Price, chairman of the Essex branch of the Institute of Directors, said: “Nurturing young entrepreneurial talent is so important and we had a great turnout this year once again.

“We would like to congratulate Bromfords on their excellent presentation.

“They gave outstanding performances and demonstrated the amazing talent we have in Essex.”