A team of business students from Lichfield College have been crowned winners of the first-ever Ignite Pitch Challenge after impressing judges with an innovative tuck shop idea.
The South Staffordshire College students took first place in the competition with their concept, Sweet Retreat, a modern college tuck shop offering a mix of traditional sweets and healthier options, alongside app-based ordering and a student rewards scheme.
The Ignite Pitch Challenge was delivered by Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce as part of Staffordshire County Council’s Ignite programme, which has supported more than 36,000 young people across the county over the past six years by helping them develop entrepreneurial and employability skills.
Five student teams from colleges across Staffordshire took part in the inaugural competition, presenting their business ideas to a judging panel made up of representatives from the business, education and public sectors.
Representing Lichfield College were Isobel Wallbank, Cobie Ellison, Jayden Choudhury, Kailen Goalby, George Whale and Seth Newey.
The team’s pitch stood out for its commercial viability, creativity, teamwork and confident presentation.
Speaking on behalf of the group, student Isobel Wallbank said: “We really enjoyed the hands-on experience where we’ve all learnt skills we didn’t even know existed, stuff that we will be able to apply to jobs in the workforce and whatever we end up doing in the future.
“I think it’s perfect to add to a portfolio and CV.”
As winners of the challenge, the students received gift vouchers and will also be supported by Staffordshire County Council to secure individual work experience opportunities linked to their future career ambitions.
Business tutor Lydia Ashwood praised the students’ achievement. She said: “I am incredibly proud of the learners’ achievement. This is a fantastic accomplishment for the team and a real testament to their hard work, creativity and confidence throughout the competition.
“They successfully applied their business knowledge to develop a strong commercial idea and represented South Staffordshire College brilliantly.
“Their professionalism, incredible teamwork and ability to communicate their ideas effectively impressed the judges and demonstrated the high standard of talent within our business department.”
South Staffordshire College said the students’ success reflected not only the strength of their business proposal but also their ambition, professionalism and determination.
The college added that experiences such as the Ignite Pitch Challenge help students apply classroom learning in real-world settings while developing the skills and confidence needed for further study, employment and future entrepreneurial ventures.
