Top Business Tips From Theo The Dragon

A student will be able to call on some good advice when he sets out to achieve his ambition of setting up his own business.

Daniel Taylor, a Tollbar Sixth Form economics student, caught the attention of Dragon's Den panellist Theo Paphitis during a networking session when the entrepreneur launched a new degree course at Leeds University.

"I asked Theo if I could contact him in the future to help me set up my own business," Daniel explained. "He gave me his business card and told me to get in touch. I shall definitely be doing so".

Daniel was one of eight Tollbar students attending the launch of the Honours Degree in Entrepreneurship, an innovative programme that guides students through the process of setting up their own business.

By the end of the tree year course, graduates will have a degree and their own functioning company.

Paphitis, owner of retail chains such as La Senza and Rymans - and the man who said that "Enterprise in the new Rock and Roll" - was in Leeds to endorse the new course being delivered by the University of Huddersfield.

During a 50 minute presentation to more than 400 students from across Yorkshire and the Humber, he explained what had motivated him to enter business and how important it was to learn from your mistakes, as well as from other entrepreneurs.

"If I could have studied this course, I'd have made better decisions throughout my business career," he said.

Tollbar student, Daniel Bennett, asked Theo if he ever felt disappointed some of his fellow TV Dragons were wealthier than he was.

"You must be kidding," he replied, "If you've got millions in the bank and you're lying on a beach, you aren't going to worry if someone else has more money than you. You'll still feel pretty successful."

Theo also offered some good advice to anyone thinking of setting up a new business.

"Don't worry about the money - just strive to be successful and do the best that you can and, believe me, the money will soon follow you."

Accompanying the students were Business Studies teachers Nick Wragg and Vince Groak.

"It's always good to take students out of the classroom to events like these," said Mr Groak. "It was held at the Royal Armouries in Leeds which has been a catalyst for regeneration in South Leeds, which the students found very interesting."

"More importantly they had the opportunity to gain first hand advice from a successful entrepreneur."

Article from The Cleethorpes Chronicle - Thursday October 9th 2008