Dr Kershaw’s Junior Dragons’ Den is back. With support from local businesses, we are on the hunt for Oldham’s next young entrepreneur.
Junior Dragons’ Den
Step into the Dragons’ Den and become Oldham’s
next young entrepreneurs!
Open to primary school pupils in Years 5 and 6, teams of up to six pupils will be challenged to create an innovative gift product, develop a business plan and learn how to bring their idea to market. Throughout the project, each team will be supported by a dedicated Business Mentor and a member of Dr Kershaw’s Fundraising Team, who will provide guidance, encouragement and expert advice.
Teams will present their business idea to our Dragons’ Den panel and bid for a £30 start-up loan to help launch their product. Once funding has been secured, teams will purchase materials, manufacture their gift and promote and sell it within their local communities.
The competition culminates in a Grand Final, where teams will showcase their achievements and reveal their profits. Awards will be presented for overall profit, innovation and presentation skills.
As well as developing creativity, teamwork, problem-solving and entrepreneurial skills, pupils will be helping to make a real difference in their community, with all profits raised supporting patient care at Dr Kershaw’s Hospice.
Key dates:
- September 2026 – Dragons’ Den pitching event and £30 start-up loan allocation
- September–December 2026 – Product development, marketing and sales
- January 2027 – Grand Final and awards presentation
Could your school produce Oldham’s next generation of entrepreneurs?
Junior Dragons’ Den Highlights 2025
Five school teams took on the challenge of creating an innovative gift, developing a business plan and pitching to our Dragons for a £30 start-up loan. Once funded, they sourced materials, manufactured their products and sold them within their local communities.
The creativity, enthusiasm and professionalism shown by every team was outstanding. Products were sold in schools, at local fairs and even at Spindles Shopping Centre, raising an incredible £1,363.19 for patient care at Dr Kershaw’s Hospice.
2025 Winning Teams
Best pitch -Medlock Valley Primary
Most innovative idea – Crompton Primary
Most profit – Burnley Brow
A huge thank you to all the schools, pupils, teachers, business mentors and Dragons who made the competition such a success!
The children had a fantastic time and really grew in confidence. They pushed themselves out of their comfort zones, showed brilliant teamwork, and were thrilled to bring in the most sales. A valuable experience we’d definitely recommend to other schools.
MARIA BALL
Year 5 Teacher, Burnley Brow
Details
WHEN:
Sept-Dec 2026
Want to know more about Junior Dragons’ Den?
Designed especially for schools, Dr Kershaw’s Junior Dragons’ Den aims to promote business, communication and problem solving skills, money management and team building.
If you would like to find out more about our 2026 Junior Dragons’ Den or enquire about signing up a group from your school, please contact our Fundraising Team at: fundraising@drkh.org.uk or 0161 624 9984.
By taking part in the Junior Dragons’ Den you will be helping us care for local men and women who are living with a life-limiting illness, giving them the specialist care they need to manage their symptoms and to be able to face the end of their lives with dignity and calm.
Junior Dragons’ Den 2026 Enquiry Form
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Featured upcoming school initiatives
March and April 2027
Bunny Hop
Spring into action for our Bunny Hop, donning your bunny ears to raise funds for patient care.
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November and December 2026
Jolly Jumper Day
Wear your favourite Christmas jumper, festive headgear or sparkly accessories to fundraise for Dr Kershaw's Hospice.
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November and December 2026
Reindeer Run
Dr Kershaw's Reindeer Run is a fun festive fundraising activity for children and adults to enjoy. Get in the Christmas spirit!
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