Students shine in Dragons’ Den-style challenge

Students at Derby College Group have been pitching their business ideas to a panel of industry experts in a Dragons’ Den-style challenge.

Over several weeks, the first-year T Level Science students from the college’s Joseph Wright Centre researched, designed and developed science-based products addressing real-world issues in sustainability, health, environmental science and engineering.

The challenge required them to present commercially viable solutions with market research, branding and financial considerations, all within a short timeframe.

The judging panel praised the quality, confidence and maturity of the students’ work, despite many having never delivered a formal presentation before.

The winning team developed ColourPlast, a smart plaster using colour-change technology to detect infection, inflammation and excess moisture.

The concept also included refillable, sustainable packaging and designs tailored to children, diabetic patients and everyday consumers.

The judges credited the team for combining scientific innovation with social impact and commercial potential. The students were awarded vouchers as their prize.

This year’s Dragons’ Den panel brought a wealth of experience from across the region’s industry sectors.

They included Steven Thai from Ocean King and Kate Woodall from East Midlands Railway.

Steven said: “I was genuinely impressed by the students’ passion for sustainability and the environment.

“Their sharp thinking, confident delivery and ability to handle challenging questions from experienced business leaders showed real maturity. The future of innovation is clearly in safe hands.”

Kate said: “The vibrancy, passion and confidence the students showed was inspiring.

“Their ideas were well-researched, ambitious and presented with real energy. It was a privilege to be part of the event.”

Event organiser Linda Horsburgh, teacher of science at DCG, said she had seen visible growth in the students during the project:

She said: “Over the past few weeks, these students have not only deepened their scientific understanding but also built strong teamwork, communication and employability skills.

“Each group embraced every challenge and presented with maturity and professionalism. I am incredibly proud of them, and grateful to our dragons and second-year mentors for their guidance.”