The science students presented a wide range of innovative, science-based ideas, including sustainable materials and renewable energy sources.
Each team showcased impressive creativity, thorough market research, and a strong grasp of the challenges and opportunities within their chosen fields.
Steven Thai, CEO of Ocean King, was one of five dragons. Ocean King is a fresh and frozen food wholesale and distribution specialist that operates a multi-million-pound storage facility in Derby.
The panel also included Suzanne Hill, Director at Assured Quality Improvements Limited; Stephen Hill, STEM Ambassador; and Glyn Pickering and Sophie Harris, both Advanced Practitioners at Derby College Group.
The judges evaluated presentations from nine groups of students, who had spent five weeks collaborating with their mentors from DCG, including second-year T Level Science students, who shared insights from their own experiences.
The task required each team to demonstrate how their concept could impact the commercial activities of science organisations, focusing on one of four key areas: government policies, material availability, market demand, or environmental concerns.
In addition to delivering compelling presentations, the students developed detailed business plans to support their ideas.
The judges were deeply impressed by the quality and innovation of the proposals, which underscored the remarkable potential of these young talents to inspire positive change and make a meaningful impact in science and technology.
The winning team, called SAMS was made up of Margarida (19), Alexiah (17), and Sandra (17). They presented their idea titled ‘Dress for the Planet’.
Their goal was to establish a sustainable fashion remanufacturing enterprise aimed at reducing textile waste and mitigating the environmental impact of the fashion industry.
By transforming old clothing into stylish, high-quality pieces, they aspired to promote circular fashion, support reforestation by planting trees with each purchase, and inspire eco-conscious consumer behaviour.
Their concept demonstrated commercial viability while contributing to a greener planet.
The winning team will receive vouchers as their reward.
Sandra (17) from the team reflected:
“It was a fantastic experience to research and develop our idea. With guidance, we were able to demonstrate how our concept could work commercially.
“We learned so much throughout the process, and even though we were nervous, the dragons were really supportive and encouraging. Discussing sustainability was particularly important to us.”
Steven Thai, CEO of Ocean King, commented:
“It was both an honour and a pleasure to be involved. What struck me most was the quality of the presentations, especially considering the students began this project just a few weeks ago.
“The progress they’ve made in such a short time is remarkable. Their ideas were thoughtful and creative, and it was evident they had put significant effort into their work.
“Standing before a panel to present is no small feat, and the students handled it with courage and poise.
“Congratulations to the DCG team and students for an outstanding event. I truly enjoyed it and look forward to seeing what the next cohort achieves.”
Suzanne Hill, Company Director, added:
“I was privileged to be part of the dragon line-up. For newly-out-of-school 16 and 17-year-olds, their depth of research, business insight, and presentation quality in front of strangers was impressive.
“They are a real credit to DCG teaching and the T Level system.”
Linda Horsburgh, Teacher of Science and organiser of the event, concluded:
“The presentations were truly outstanding, showcasing how, in a short time, the students have developed their entrepreneurial, teamwork, and employability skills to deliver impressive concepts.”
