Sixth-formers heading back to school next month are being urged to grab the chance to hone their business skills – and raise cash for a good cause at the same time.

Now in its fourth year, the North Herts Council for Voluntary Service Dragons’ Apprentice Challenge is open to all Year 12 students in North Herts and Stevenage.

It allows schools and colleges to enter their most promising young entrepreneurs in a content which matches them with a good cause, and challenged to turn £100 into £1,000 with the help and support of a mentor from a local business.

The challenge kicks off in September and will runs through until March, with the teenagers expected to create a business plan that will help them reach their financial goal by the deadline.

The successful scheme, which is spreading across Herts after being established in St Albans, aims to support the development of business and project management skills for young people as well as giving them the chance to network with potential employers.

In last year’s competition Team Carbon of from Letchworth’s St Francis’ College took top honours after being one of seven schemes shortlisted for the finals.

They raised more than £1,500 for the Time Bank Garden Team with the help of Steve Grover from Hertfordshire Timber & Building Supplies, with a fish and chip quiz night and a line of assorted chocolate thins which were sold at a range of events bringing in the money.

Across the county, a total of 56 teams took part in the scheme last year and raised a total of £83,820 for local charities.

Secondary schools and colleges have already been invited to take part with many of last year’s entrants signing up for another challenge.

If you’d like more details contact project co-ordinator Neena Raj before Friday, September 12 – call 01462 689400 or email info@nhcvs.org.uk for further information.