A class of budding businessmen and women were suited and booted when they entered the dragons' den yesterday to pitch their business ideas to a panel of local entrepreneurs.

A total of 31 children in year six at Brundall Primary School walked away with investments in their businesses.

The youngsters were split into seven teams and they pitched business ideas, including a fitness DVD, a brownie and milkshake company and a firm which supplies personalised T-shirts, to the panel of local business leaders.

They asked for investments of between �30 and �50 to help get their businesses off the ground.

Business leaders from Norwich city football club, Rogers and Norton, Budgens and Pymm and Co estate agents gathered at the school and listened to the pitches.

Class teacher, Edward Dooley, said: 'All the children received investments – some from one dragon and some from two dragons. They have all taken the project very seriously and they were all really looking forward to it. There was a big build-up to the day, there was a definite buzz around school.'

The pupils worked on business plans and had lessons about sales and marketing. Each group compiled profit and loss accounts and break even charts.

'They have their SATS coming up, so this is a fun project to do beforehand,' Mr Dooley said. 'It has worked really well.Hopefully the dragons will get their investment back.

'The pupils are a very able bunch and things did get quite competitive as they will be selling their products at the same time as each other. They all want to win-over customers.'

Steve Pymm, director of local estate agents, Pymm and Co, said: 'I decided to invest in a brownie and milkshake company. I have given �40 for 30pc of the business which I now own with Jordan, Casey, Will, Richard and Harvey. I had to negotiate hard to get a 30pc stake.'

Mr Pymm, who is a former Brundall Primary School pupil added: 'I was interested in a company which was making wristbands, but someone else pipped me to it. I am very impressed – it has been a fantastic experience for the children. It has taught them a lot of skills.'

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