ENTERPRISING youngsters made no attempt to duck out of an exciting business challenge at school.

Durham Education Business Partnership tasked pupils at Woodham Academy in Newton Aycliffe with setting up their own company, making and selling origami ducks.

They were loaned fake money to source materials for the ducks and then negotiated with buyers to obtain the best price.

Each pupil was given a role within their “company” and the teams had to respond to changes within the market place, including shortages of paper and growing demand for particular colours.

Experienced business people and apprentices from local firms, including Gestamp Tallent and Optimum Skill, were also on hand to offer support and advice throughout the day.

Sarah Tiplady, business and learning co-ordinator of Durham Education Business Partnership, which is part of Durham County Council, said: “Duck Day works really well because it encourages children to use a whole range of skills that are valued by employers.

"It is also fast-paced and great fun. The winning team is the one that makes the most profit and, as you can imagine, it gets very competitive.”

Jaycee Latue, 13, said: “It has been a really good experience. We have learnt about setting up a business and how to work as a team.”