Chelmsford College Learners Win Top Prize at Herons’ Den 2026
Two Chelmsford College learners have been crowned winners at this year’s Herons’ Den competition, hosted at ARU’s Arise Innovation Hub in Harlow on the 6th May 2026. Representing the College with confidence and pride, Oliver Lodge and Max Sodeau impressed a panel of industry experts (“the Herons”) with their innovative business pitch, securing the £1,000 top prize to support their entrepreneurial ambitions.
Herons’ Den brings together students from across Essex to pitch real business ideas in a fast-paced, investment style environment. This year, teams from Harlow College, USP College, St Mark’s West Essex Catholic School and Chelmsford College were selected to take part.
Oliver and Max delivered a five minute pitch followed by a Q&A with the judges, demonstrating strong understanding of problem solving and long term business planning.
The event was organised in partnership with ARU’s Arise Innovation Hubs, Thickbroom Enterprise CIC, and Arise members Whiskers LLP and Logical Branding Limited. Alongside the competition, learners took part in a networking lunch with business leaders and received Arise goodie bags to support their entrepreneurial journey.
Sharon Wuyts, Lecturer in Business at Chelmsford College, said: "Herons’ Den was such a wonderful opportunity for our learners. Their passion and professionalism were impressive and will support them in their futures."
Off the back of Chelmsford College’s recent Youth Business Event, Herons’ Den was a timely activity forming another part of Chelmsford College’s ongoing commitment to developing enterprise skills, building confidence and giving learners access to real world experiences that prepare them for employment, higher education and business start up pathways.
Everyone at Chelmsford College is incredibly proud of Oliver and Max for their achievement and to all of its learners who continue to show ambition, creativity and drive.