After 10 weeks of dedication, collaboration, and creative thinking, the CRAN.DO Challenge culminated in a sparkling awards ceremony on Wednesday night. At the start of term the Lower Sixth students were given a mission: to use a £150 investment to design, market, and launch a profitable business that addresses a real need.
Divided into teams of eight, each group was purposefully curated to avoid friendship groups and housemates, encouraging fresh perspectives and diverse skill sets. The journey was not without its hurdles—students faced the complexities of opening bank accounts, selecting the right product or service, sourcing suppliers, and marketing to their target customer base. A key element of the CRAN.DO Challenge was its emphasis on developing future-ready skills. Beyond entrepreneurship, the students honed essential qualities like teamwork, leadership, communication, resilience, adaptability, and creative problem-solving.
From dog leads to tracksuit bottoms, crocs to budgie smugglers, the students showcased a range of inventive products and services. They hosted events such as a Football Tournament, Darts Flight Night, produced candles for Mother’s Day, and even launched a Cranleigh delivery service.
The final test was a nerve-wracking pitch to the CRAN.DO “Dragons’ Den,” where students stepped outside their comfort zones to present their business ventures to a panel of judges. CRAN.DO wouldn’t have been possible without the unparalleled teamwork of the entire Cranleigh community. From staff mentors to teachers who gave their time, house teams who provided ideas and
support, the Finance team, Facilities, Marketing, Events, Cranleigh Friends, Catering and Theatre Tech.
Their dedication and belief in this initiative have been extraordinary.
As we look back on the success of this year’s challenge, we’re excited to see what the Upper Fifth will create when they take on the CRAN.DO Challenge next year. The creativity, resilience, and teamwork on display this year have set a high bar, and we can’t wait to see what’s next!
The winners were as followed:
Teamwork: Back It Up
Business Idea & Plan: Vintage Vault
Profit & Profit: Tails and Trails
Brand Identity: Mini Mates
Presentation: Cranjamz
Sustainability and Social Value: Crandle&Co
Mentors Award: Ashley Gaffney
Overall CranDo Winner: CranTracks
