Debenham High School's Koazy reaches UK's top 12 teams

Out of more than 900 businesses in the UK, Koazy, the young enterprise team at Debenham High School managed to reach the national finals and compete against teams from Wales, Scotland and Gibraltar.

The team won the Suffolk and Norfolk Area finals and the East of England final to get to that point.

For the final, the team had to prepare a written report on their company, a promotional video, a presentation and a panel interview with judges from Delta Air Lines, Ernst & Young, Institute of Export and the head of marketing at Hundo.

The Koazy team. Credit: Debenham High School (Image: Debenham High School)

Jane Wilson, their teacher, said: "They have blossomed and grown in confidence, have learned to use their initiate, negotiate with suppliers, learn business skills and above all, work well as a team.

"They have been remarkable in their creativity, enthusiasm and perseverance."

The team, made up of Year 10 students, have been successful with selling their stock around Suffolk, including getting their product stocked in local shops around Debenham and Snape Maltings.

They are also grateful to Framlingham Town Council who provided them with a young person's pitch at the town's Saturday markets.

Koazy sold handmade wheat bags and eye masks. Credit: Debenham High School (Image: Debenham High School)

Emily Hall, Koazy company secretary, added: "The young enterprise programme has helped me to develop countless skills and thrive in an outstanding team environment.

"I strongly believe that without this experience and the incredible support from our teacher, I would not be the person I am today."

Ian Pepper, the team's business adviser, said: "It has been a privilege to work with the students and teachers at the school.

"The future of our business world is bright with such talented young people."