BUSINESS and economics students quizzed a former contestant of the TV show The Apprentice to gain an insight into entrepreneurship.

Over 120 students at Holy Family Catholic School in Shernhall Street, Walthamstow, met Paul Sullivan, who was one of the candidates fired by Lord Sugar on this year’s show.

Mr Sullivan, 38, of Chigwell, Essex, spoke about becoming the only investment banker in London who did not complete A-levels or hold a degree.

Adele Klitou, vice principal of Holy Family Catholic School said the students, from Year 10 to Year 13, pitched ideas to Mr Sullivan in an effort to win his approval.

She said: “All the students loved the talk and they found it really interesting.

“Paul gave them a task in groups to pitch a new idea to the class and then he gave them advice.

“He told the students he didn’t go to university and get qualifications and he found that challenging in his career.

“He encouraged them to remain in education and work hard and be successful.”

Mr Sullivan is the owner and director of a marketing company specialising in finance, technology, construction and property.

Student Nathan John-Baptise who started his own soap and bath bomb company, Luxurious Blends, was one of the keen entrepreneurs who attended the talk.