Budding entrepreneurs will put their business acumen to the test to turn a £50 investment into thousands of pounds for a children’s hospice.

Pupils have been given a 14-week challenge to grow a £50 investment into £1,500 for Haven House Children's Hospice.

The hospice's Galliard Homes School Enterprise Project challenges teenagers to develop business skills with all proceeds going to the Woodford based charity.

Around 40 pupils from Bancroft’s, Debden Park, Roding Valley High, The Forest Academy, West Hatch High and Woodford County High are taking part.

Students, tutored by mentors from Galliard Homes, sponsors of the project, will plan start-up events business and a range of fundraising activities in their school.

The challenge is hoping to raise £9,000 for the hospice that cares for seriously ill children and their families.

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Students will plan events and set up small businesses to grow the £50 investment into £1,500

Ginny Donnelly, Haven House community fundraiser, said: “This is the second time we are running this project and students have already demonstrated their enthusiasm by hosting cake sales and Halloween-themed tuck shops.

“It’s important that young people understand more about the valuable work the hospice does in their local community. These are our supporters and volunteers of the future and we are delighted to witness their passion for Haven House.”

Chris Butler, of Bancroft's School, said: "The Enterprise Project is a terrific opportunity to raise money for the hospice. It provides pupils with an insight into the business world and a chance to develop their team building, communication creativity and project skills whilst building on their confidence."

The challenge will climax with an awards evening in March 2020 when each school will showcase their achievements - winners will then be selected for a number of awards including; most money raised, most innovative idea, best presentation, mentor’s award and the Galliard Homes award.

Galliard Homes group HR director Victoria Anthony said: “Galliard Homes are delighted to be sponsoring the Haven House Schools Enterprise Project once again. The first project was extremely successful, and we are excited to be working with another fantastic group of students.”