The group of five year nine pupils entered the competition with their ‘Transfer Foods’ idea, which involved unique food dishes being created in honour of the club’s new signings. The idea, which was recognised by Manchester United Group Managing Director Richard Arnold, saw the club’s catering staff work closely with the pupils to help refine their dishes and menus. 

The Enterprise Challenge is the highlight of the Premier League Enterprise calendar, a project which uses the hook of football plus the knowledge and expertise of the club’s staff to engage teenagers in business activities. This year the North West heats took place at the Etihad Stadium, home to United's cross town rivals Manchester City. 

Lucy, one of the pupils involved in the project, explained how it had helped her development.  “The experience has really boosted my confidence and I'm starting to think about jobs I could do in the future,” she said. “We now have to work really hard for the final and perfect everything in the presentation; we need to be confident without being cocky and be well prepared.”

Manchester United Foundation Enterprise Coordinator, Rob Martin, was please with how the group had developed and refined their idea. He said “This group have come a really long way, there's a massive increase in confidence when presenting and every single participant has been a credit to their school. I'm really proud of how they have represented Manchester United and am looking forward to continuing their journey in the finals.”

26 Premier League and Football League clubs have taken part in the 2016 Enterprise Challenge this year, with over 2,500 students involved.  A total of 90,000 young people across the country have engaged in the Enterprise programme since it began in 2009.

The Swinton High School pupils will now advance to the final in London alongside five other clubs.

Follow the Premier League Enterprise challenge on @PLCommunities and using #PLEnterprise.