Shopping centre teams up with Portsmouth schools in Dragons Den project

Portsmouth Academy, Charter Academy and King Richard School, all in Portsmouth, are working with Gunwharf Quays in the Dragons Den-style project.

Launched at the beginning of this month, in partnership with Landsec and The Ahead Partnership, the Year 10 students will create the unique product to go on sale to the public in the summer.

The pupils will be paired up with a coach from Gunwharf Quays’ management team to guide and mentor them through the development stage.

The first mentor session was held earlier this week and the teenagers got advice from retail and marketing experts.

In a few weeks the pupils will produce a presentation on their idea and a panel of judges will select an overall winner.

Colin Wilding, general manager at Gunwharf Quays, said: ‘We are passionate about supporting young people in achieving their full potential, showcasing the vast array of career opportunities within our city.

‘We work with Highbury College and HTP College who both offer employment opportunities for many students as well as apprenticeships and taster sessions in retail and hospitality.’

The winning idea will be developed into a product which will be available to buy at Gunwharf Quays.

Proceeds from sales will be donated to the shopping centre’s charity partner and the school’s charity of choice.