What Happens When Real Business Mentors Enter the Classroom?

For many students, studying business at sixth form can feel very different from experiencing how business works in the real world. Lessons teach theory and case studies introduce key concepts, but presenting ideas to genuine entrepreneurs and industry professionals brings learning to life in a completely different way.

That was exactly the experience for Business students at John Leggott College, who recently took part in a Dragon’s Den-style enterprise event designed to challenge students to think creatively, communicate confidently and pitch their ideas to a panel of real business mentors.

Bringing Real Business Experience Into Sixth Form Education

Students presented original business ideas to a panel made up of local professionals, college staff and former JLC students. The event created an exciting opportunity for learners to experience the professionalism and pressure of pitching in a real business environment.

The panel brought together expertise from a wide range of industries and organisations across North Lincolnshire. Ray Nolan from Nolan Interiors shared insight from the world of interior design, while Josh Walshe from Walshes Property brought valuable experience from the estate agency sector. Steve Urry from Forge Financials challenged students to think carefully about financial planning and commercial viability, alongside Hayden Gilmour from John Leggott College.

Students also received feedback from business investor Nasreen Rafiq, Dean Sone from the paintball supply industry, Melanie Mason from a private catering company, Neil Harriman from productivity management, and Selina Doyle from Lindsey Lodge Hospice. Their combined experience gave students the opportunity to hear a range of perspectives from professionals working across business, finance, operations and the charity sector.

Former JLC students Libby Credland and Jade Chapman also returned to support the event alongside Jay Blackburn from UCNL. Their involvement gave current students valuable insight into progression after sixth form and the opportunities available beyond college life.

Why Enterprise Skills Matter in Sixth Form

Business education at a sixth form college like John Leggott College is about more than learning theory. Students develop transferable skills that support future success in university, apprenticeships and employment.

Activities like this help students build:

• Communication and presentation skills

• Financial awareness and commercial thinking

• Creativity and problem-solving

• Confidence under pressure

• Independent thinking and teamwork

These experiences encourage students to apply classroom knowledge in practical situations while preparing for the expectations of higher education and future careers.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

One of the strongest aspects of sixth form education is the opportunity to connect academic study with real-world experience. Events like the Dragon’s Den challenge help students understand how business concepts work outside the classroom while gaining valuable feedback from professionals already working within industry.

Students at JLC benefit from partnerships with the wider North Lincolnshire business community, helping them explore future career pathways and gain insight into different industries and professions.

The quality of the students’ ideas and presentations impressed the panel throughout the event, reflecting the creativity, ambition and confidence developing within the college’s business students.

Supporting Future Progression

Experiences like this play an important role in preparing students for life after sixth form. Whether students progress to university, degree apprenticeships or employment, opportunities to develop confidence, resilience and professional communication can have a lasting impact.

At John Leggott College, students are encouraged not only to study business theory but to think independently, take ideas seriously and develop the skills needed for long-term success in education and future careers.

FAQ Section

Who took part in the Dragon’s Den panel at JLC?

The panel included Ray Nolan (interior design), Josh Walshe (estate agency), Steve Urry from Forge Financials, Hayden Gilmour, investor Nasreen Rafiq, Dean Sone (paintball supply business), Melanie Mason (private catering company), Neil Harriman (productivity management), Selina Doyle from Lindsey Lodge, former JLC students Libby Credland and Jade Chapman, and Jay Blackburn from UCNL.

Why are enterprise activities important in sixth form?

Enterprise activities help students develop confidence, communication skills, teamwork and commercial awareness alongside their academic studies.

Does John Leggott College offer Business courses?

Yes. JLC offers Business courses designed to help students develop academic knowledge and practical skills for university, apprenticeships and future careers.

How do students benefit from real-world business experiences?

Students gain valuable feedback from professionals, improve presentation skills and develop a stronger understanding of how business works beyond the classroom.

Can local businesses work with JLC students?

Yes. John Leggott College regularly works with local employers, businesses and professionals to enrich student learning and provide real-world experiences.