Barking pupils have strived for success in business after being named runner-up in the Warwick University Big Deal 2017.

The five-strong Barking Abbey team received the prize after presenting their product idea to a panel of judges including management consultant Craig Bentley, in a Dragons’ Den format after 10 weeks of preparation.

The girls were led by the school’s gifted and talented coordinator Andrea Agathangelou, winning a £25 Amazon voucher and a Warwick University Power Bank.

Miss Agathangelou said: “The skills they learnt during this competition is remarkable.

“Within 10 weeks students produced a detailed business plan, prototype mobile app, social media pages, a TV advertisement and so much more.”

Led by digital mentor Nick Jassett, the pupils competed against eight other schools, with their pitch of an app on sexual health advice catered to different cultures and religions, combating teen pregnancy.

Miss Agathangelou added: “Judges fired questions at the students regarding every aspect of their business and Barking Abbey rose above with fantastic well prepared answers.

“I could not be more proud of the girls. They worked extremely hard throughout the competition and demonstrated the true potential of Barking Abbey students.”