On 30th November, under the mentorship of Merchant Taylors Richard McBride and Victoria Townsend, six Year 13 pupils from Foyle College participated in the Livery Academy Awards.  Richard McBride is a former pupil of Foyle College and a current Governor of the school whose background is in Law whilst Victoria Townsend is the founder of The London Academy of Bespoke. Their joint expertise and business acumen provided the pupils with the perfect marriage of guidance and knowledge.

Traditionally hosted in Merchant Taylors’ Hall, London, this year the pupils joined the competition virtually, proposing the launch of their Covid-19 inspired product, Care Cog.  During months of preparatory work alongside Richard and Victoria, the team developed a business plan and created a product prototype, before presenting their Care Cog, to Merchant Taylors‘ judging panel, Lady Harding, Nick Hewer and Jana Mackintosh.  The team’s presentation was excellent and they coped well with the judges’ questions; however, London-based all girls St Saviour’s & St Olave’s School were selected as winners.

For their participation, the Merchant Taylors’ Company awarded Foyle College £1,000 for the pupils to gift to their chosen charity, Foyle Search and Rescue.  The pupils selected Foyle Search and Rescue because it is a grassroots charity whose work makes valuable contributions within their local community.

The pupils really benefited from their participation in the Livery Academy Awards and are proud that their journey will also help to support others through the Merchant Taylors’ Company’s generous donation on their behalf.