The next generation of Northern Ireland’s business leaders went head-to-head this week at the NI Schools’ Business Challenge, with Dalriada School from Ballymoney emerging victorious after a high-stakes day of strategising and pitching.

Teams of AS and A-Level students joined the annual event at Belfast’s prestigious Riddel Hall, led by Queen’s Business School, Henderson Group and BDO Northern Ireland, supported by CCEA.

Participants were set a challenging real-world business brief to solve under intense time pressure, each having to transform their solution into a viable, actionable plan for pitching to a panel of expert judges in a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style environment.

After rigorous analysis and spirited presentations, Dalriada took the top prize, securing £500 for their school and a VIP experience to watch the Belfast Giants, courtesy of the Henderson Group.

BDO NI Partner and Head of Audit Laura Jackson said: “Once again this event has been a fantastic showcase of the young talent across Northern Ireland. BDO NI believes passionately in encouraging the next generation to participate in subjects and opportunities that challenge their business acumen early.

“Every year, we see the immense benefits of putting pupils in high-pressure situations where they must rely on teamwork, flexibility and innovation. Huge congratulations to Dalriada’s team and to every participant who stepped up to this year’s challenge!”

The NI Schools’ Business Challenge continues to be a cornerstone event for local secondary schools, bridging the gap between classroom theory and the realities of the professional business world.

Billy Moore, Group Finance Director at Henderson Group adds: “It’s been another year of impressive talent from the schools in this year’s competition. We put forward a business challenge that was designed to bring out the best in each pupil, challenging their critical thinking and implementing their skillset in a real-world scenario. We have met some of NI’s future leaders this year, and on behalf of Henderson Group, I extend hearty congratulations to Dalriada School.”

Claire Scott McAteer, Senior Lecturer of Practice (Accounting) comments: “Queen’s Business School was delighted to see another successful competition run which involved close collaboration with industry, professional practice, CCEA and schools from across Northern Ireland.

“It was refreshing and exciting to see so many secondary school students enjoy being on our campus, engaging with us while also being involved in this highly competitive competition. Congratulations to Dalriada School for their engaging and professional presentation. Also, well done to the many other students who competed and a special note of thanks to their very dedicated teachers.”

Jill Armer, CCEA's Business Studies Education Manager adds: “This year’s NI Schools’ Business Challenge has once again highlighted the exceptional talent within our A-level Business Studies cohort. The calibre of analysis, teamwork and professionalism on display was truly impressive. By working on a live case study in partnership with industry leaders, students gained invaluable insight into strategic decision-making and the realities of the business world.”