Lord Sugar stirs computer kids' class DIY ideas

Business tycoon Lord Sugar has fired the imagination of Burnley High School boys and girls.

In a term-long project, Year 7 pupils are following in the footsteps of the Amstrad boss and building their own computers from scratch.

Fraser Bannister (left) and Freya Gore working on their project.placeholder image
Fraser Bannister (left) and Freya Gore working on their project.

They are also and putting together business plans to “launch” their own companies in a move which reflects the humble beginnings of the industry leader.

Computing teacher Imran Sidat said Lord Sugar’s real-life exploits had led the school to hold its own Apprentice-style contest with the best computer allied to marketing and business skills set to carry off the accolades.

Morgan ODea inspects a computer componentplaceholder image
Morgan ODea inspects a computer component

He said: “Lord Sugar began by putting his first computer together himself and that was the foundation of his business empire. Our pupils have been enthused by his story.

“All school disciplines are involved from the good use of English in the business plans to maths in the company forecasts.

“And, of course, while all our students are capable of using computers, building one from a pile of components is a different matter. The early signs are they are doing extremely well.”

The project has received a boost from Padiham firm LCWS Recycling, which has donated enough components to build 25 computers.

Nikita Caple gets to grips with a dvd drive.placeholder image
Nikita Caple gets to grips with a dvd drive.

LCWS Recycling’s general manager Chris Stevenson said: “We are happy to help this local school with their studies.

“I am looking forward to seeing the final results and helping judge the Apprentice competition.”

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