Budding entrepreneurs at Abbeyfield School have reached the finals of a national business competition with their plans for a music hire venue.

The six teenagers beat 300 other competitors to be included in the final seven groups competing in the Skills Factor competition later this month.

Managing director Suriaya Uddin led fellow students Hasaan Uddin, Chris Waterfield, Stefanie Stewart, Heather Pemberton and Luke Bramble in putting forward ideas for INTRO – a venue for musicians and bands to practise and perform.

They put together a video presentation and business model, which was judged over the summer holidays.

The name comes from innovation, negotiation, team work, respect and organisation – all skills needed to start a business.

The 17-year-olds are now making last minute changes to their model, which they will present before a panel of judges at BAFTA in Piccadilly on September 24.

Abbeyfield teacher and Young Chamber co-ordinator Jemma Virgin said: “The aim of the competition was to come up with a business idea, but th e focus of it was on the skills they develop while working together as a team.

“They all worked on this in their free time and they are delighted to make it to the final.”

“I am really proud of the group because they put in so much work.”

CEO of Young Chamber Kevin Smith said: “The team were worthy winners of the regional finals, beating some excellent presentations from other schools.”