LONDON, Tuesday 18th October 2011: Following the huge success of the first series Lord Sugar returns with his search for a Young Apprentice, on BBC One this autumn.

An avid supporter of young people in business, Lord Sugar will offer twelve of the UK’s most promising and ambitious teenagers the opportunity of a lifetime; a chance to follow in his entrepreneurial footsteps by competing for the title of Young Apprentice.

For eight weeks from 9pm on Monday 24^th October, twelve young candidates will make the leap from classroom to boardroom and face an education like no other as they embark on a series of tough tasks, pushing their skills to the limit. The young candidates will face the same cut-throat competition as in the adult series – it’s survival of the fittest as the tasks become more challenging.

From all corners of the UK, each of the aspiring moguls have been selected for their academic flair and burning passion for business – Lord Sugar has spotted something in all of them, but only one can succeed in becoming the next Young Apprentice.

Aged across 16 and 17 years old, most of these tycoons of tomorrow are still in education and span a broad range of backgrounds from council estates to private schools; they include an award-winning fashion designer, a young farmer, a published author, a filmmaker, a keen horticulturalist, a photographer and a former head-girl.

Lord Sugar started in business at the same age and expects his prospects to be able to do the same.  They believe that they have the capability, passion and raw business talent to take on the challenge and be the one to win access to a fund worth £25,000. The fund will go towards kick-starting his or her business career, and will be tailored to their individual career prospects and development.

All think they have what it takes, but can they prove themselves when the pressure is on? Lord Sugar warns them: “You are young, don’t try and pretend like you know it all because believe me it’ll be embarrassing.” With tasks including making and selling ice cream, launching a new brand of deodorant and creating an online video game, the candidates will quickly learn that Lord Sugar doesn’t hang about when it comes to separating the wheat from the chaff.

Lord Sugar is, once again, aided by his no-nonsense advisers Nick Hewer and Karren Brady who will scrutinise the candidates’ every move during the weekly tasks.

They will live in a luxurious townhouse in St John’s Wood, North London, giving them a taste of the lavish lives they dream of. For some, it’s their first time away from home, but for all it’s the chance to experience what life could be like as a high flyer. When the winner is crowned they will be given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be mentored by Britain’s most famous boss.

Lord Sugar’s search for his next Young Apprentice is about to begin…

Young Apprentice is a talkbackTHAMES production for BBC ONE. Michele Kurland is the Executive Producer, Colm Martin is the Series Editor. Executive Producer for the BBC, Jo Wallace.

THE GIRLS

Elizabeth Magee (‘Lizzie’)
Age: 16
Education: Studying for A Levels in Economics, History, Politics and General Studies
Lives: Liverpool

Published author and rounders champion, Elizabeth “Lizzie” Magee’s first job was collecting glasses in a pub. She now has her own business designing personalised guitar straps and also breeds Jack Russell Terriers. A gym fanatic, she describes herself as impatient and a “time freak.”

She says: “I’m very, very determined and if I know how to get something I will get it.”

Gbemi Okunlola
Age: 16
Education: Studying for a Fashion and Design Advanced BTEC and an A Level in Business Studies
Lives: London

Award winning fashion designer Gbemi has already started her own clothing line and is involved in both designing and making the clothes. Listing Louis Vuitton as her inspiration, Gbemi describes herself as a ‘diva’ and feels her strength is that she always works to her full potential.

She says: “if I believe that what I’m saying is right I will argue until my full voice and my full opinion is heard.”

Hannah Richards
Age: 16
Education: Studying for A Levels in Government and Politics, History Economics, Philosophy and Ethics.
Lives: Berkshire

Female footballer Hannah has made money re-selling vintage clothes and creating school leavers’ hoodies. She plays for two football teams and also enjoys architecture, hoping to get involved in property management in the future.

She says: “I want to show that you can succeed in the business field, without relying on numerous qualifications. The right mind and attitude is ultimately a much more important quality than 12 A*s”

Haya Al Dlame
Age: 17
Education: Studying for A Levels in Maths, Further Maths, Economics, Biology and an Extended Project
Lives: London

Born in Iraq, Haya moved to England with her family at the age of 6. A self-proclaimed bossy-boots who is determined to succeed in business, she is also a keen eBay trader and wishes she was the brains behind MAC cosmetics.

She says: “I have a big ego… I want to be known as Haya Al Dlame, the next deserving winner of Young Apprentice. “

Hayley Forrester
Age: 16
Education: Studying for A Levels in Biology, Maths, Business & Economics and ICT
Lives: Shrewsbury

Ambitious former Head Girl Hayley says her “life revolves around order.” A farmer’s daughter and member of Young Farmers herself, she passionately disagrees with people claiming benefits when they could be working. Inspired by drinks company Innocent, she sells free range, organic eggs from her own chickens.

She says: “I wear wellies, and I am not afraid to muck in”

Zara Brownless
Age: 16
Education: Studying for A Levels in English Literature, Maths, History and Theatre Studies
Lives: Hertfordshire

Film enthusiast Zara used to be a baby model and won a sock design competition when she was seven years old. She is inspired by Katherine Bigelow, the first female director to win an Oscar and currently produces films for charities. When she’s not making movies, Zara enjoys running and playing table tennis.

She says: “Dreamers dream; people who achieve wake up, get out there and start doing stuff to make their dreams happen.”

MEET THE BOYS

Ben Fowler
Age: 16
Education: Studying for Business Diploma
Lives: Birmingham

A keen horticulturalist, Ben started a gardening business in his local area in 2008. He is involved in social enterprise projects providing voluntary services to the allotment association, having taken on his own allotment at a young age. In the future he hopes to help those with learning and behavioural problems study horticulture and agriculture.

He says: “I am an ordinary lad who wants to do the best not just for myself but for everyone.”

Harry Hitchens
Age: 17
Education: Studying for the International Baccalaureate
Lives: Brighton

Keen rugby player and scuba diver Harry also has an artistic side, and runs his own photography business. He has been working since he was nine, with jobs including gardening, selling at car boot sales and magazine delivery. He wishes he had invented the Cat’s Eye road marker.

He says: “I aim high. I don’t aim low ever, what are you ever going to gain from that? I aim high and I get there because of that determination, because I’m pretty ruthless in how I get there.”

Harry Maxwell
Age: 16
Education: Studying for Pre-Us in Maths and Further Maths and A Levels in Geography and Economics and the Extended Project
Lives: Oxfordshire

School prefect Harry is a polo enthusiast and water-sports fanatic, as well as a talented singer and pianist. Inspired by Simon Cowell, entrepreneur Harry is a business veteran despite his young age. Starting his first business when he was ten, selling tickets on the internet, he has already started three successful businesses, encompassing travel, marketing, property and cosmetics.

He says: “In terms of my intellect, self-motivation, confidence, and business instinct for my age, I am unrivalled. I have a pure entrepreneurial gift waiting to be unleashed and harnessed”.

James McCullagh
Age: 17
Education: Studying for A Levels in English, Economics, Spanish and Biology
Lives: County Derry, Northern Ireland

Irishman James describes himself as a risk-taker and always follows his gut instinct. James got the joint highest score in GCSE Economics in Northern Ireland and feels he is a natural businessman. He is a massive football fan and lists his passion as economics.

He says: “I have integrity, but when winning gets in the way of integrity, integrity goes out the window.”

Lewis Roman
Age: 16
Education: Studying for A Levels in World Development, Psychology, Performing Arts, ICT
Lives: Merseyside

Describing himself as ‘confident, charismatic and clever’, Lewis Roman’s first foray into the business world was as an assistant stylist at a hair salon. A keen shopper and gym buff, Lewis now works in the food industry and hopes to change the world of business forever.

He says: “I’m not arrogant or backstabbing, I’m just a really great guy.”

Mahamed Awale
Age: 16
Education: Studying for A Levels in Politics, Law, Economics and Psychology
Lives: Greater London

A keen inventor and fundraiser who describes himself as “competitive and charismatic,” Mahamed who is the Youth Parliament Representative for his borough, has already made money buying and selling TV satellites. Inspired by the Microsoft and Facebook brands, he hopes to bring about “monumental change” using politics and youth outreach schemes.

He says: “I have so many abilities and so many talents. I want to prove what an entrepreneurial person I am.”

LONDON, Tuesday 3rd May 2011: BBC ONE’s multi award-winning and critically acclaimed business entertainment series The Apprentice returns for a seventh series on Tuesday 10^th May, as a new line-up of corporate contenders face Lord Sugar in the battle for boardroom supremacy. Episode two of the hotly anticipated new series will be shown on Wednesday 11^th May.

From all corners of the country, Britain’s entrepreneurial elite have come to London to face the biggest challenge of their careers – embarking on a business battle over 12 tough tasks with multi-millionaire tycoon, Lord Sugar. Selected for their entrepreneurial flair and burning passion for business – Lord Sugar has spotted something in all of them but only one can succeed in proving they have the commercial acumen and business skill to be worthy of entering into a partnership with him as winner of The Apprentice 2011.

Injecting a new spin into the life-changing opportunity, this year’s successful Apprentice will no longer win a six figured salary job working in one of Lord Sugar’s businesses.  Instead the winner and their business idea will found the basis of a partnership with Lord Sugar, with an investment to the value of £250,000.

In the present period of financial recovery this year’s candidates face a series of gruelling tasks, and this year the bar has been raised as each task is based on a start up business, designed to push their skills to the limit. They are risking it all by leaving what they know behind and venturing into unfamiliar territory as they fight to launch their plan with his business backing and unequivocal guidance.

Failure is not an option and mistakes will not be forgiven as Lord Sugar wastes no time in telling his potential business partners how the hunt for a new partnership will work:

“I’m going to inject £250,000 worth of cash and value into a business, your business, and you’re going to run it. And I say you’re going to run it because don’t expect me to be doing all the work because I’m not looking for a “sleeping” partner. I’m not Saint Alan, the patron saint of bloody losers… You can look at it as a bit of an uncivil partnership, so to speak. I want you to treat this first task as if it’s your own business. Here’s something to note, this is an investment, and I want some return on my money.”

With the stakes set higher than ever, Lord Sugar and his eagle eyed advisors Nick Hewer and Karren Brady will each week be watching how the candidates perform in 12 challenging tasks.

The candidates’ CVs reveal: an inventor, a business psychologist, a former cycling champion, an estate agent, an accountant and entrepreneurs in fields as varied as creative arts, organic skincare and fast food.

Although the candidates will live in a lavish mansion and be given a taste of the high-flying life they dream of, the weeks ahead will be anything but glamorous as they roll up their tailored sleeves and embark upon weeks of hard graft with only one of them emerging triumphant.  Rivalry is intense as the 16 challengers vie for the chance to go into business with one of the world’s most renowned business moguls.

Episode one follows the candidates as they are split into two teams, each team being tasked to invest £250 in fresh fruit and vegetables in a battle to make the highest return. The candidates must buy the produce, add value to it and sell it to the public under the strict scrutiny of Nick and Karren. The decision of how to spend their money is theirs but only one factor will be considered in the first boardroom showdown – who has made the biggest return on Lord Sugar’s investment?

Series seven will see personalities clash and tempers soar as the cut-throat competition gets tougher with every task. With each task based on a business start-up, the potential apprentices will design a mobile phone application, be tested in the beauty industry, create new pet food, launch a magazine, explore the lucrative possibilities of biscuits, transform rubbish into money, start a restaurant chain and trade internationally.

For these elite professionals it is make or break time in the most daunting challenges they will ever face. With gripping boardroom showdowns and determined candidates, this series promises to be the most intense and unpredictable yet.

The money is on the table and the boss is in the boardroom but who will win to become this year’s Apprentice?

Ultimate fan show, The Apprentice: You’re Fired! will also be making a welcome return to BBC Two immediately after the main show with host Dara O Briain in the chair. Each week the fired candidate is interrogated by business experts, celebrity fans of the show and a studio audience of viewers.

The BBC Apprentice website – www.bbc.co.uk/apprentice – will feature clips from each episode and exclusive footage of each of the 16 candidates, filmed during the selection process. Viewers will be able to catch up with events surrounding the show in the official blog, a daily source of information for all things Apprentice, featuring the best of Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.

The Apprentice is a talkbackTHAMES production for BBC ONE. Michele Kurland is Executive Producer, Mark Saben is Series Editor. Jo Wallace is the Executive Editor for the BBC.

The Apprentice will air on BBC One, BBC HD, the BBC’s high definition channel and BBC One HD and will be repeated on BBC Three.

MEET THE GIRLS

Edna Agbarha

Age: 36 Occupation: Business Psychologist Lives: London

One of ten siblings, London born Edna rose from working life as a teenager on her uncle’s Covent Garden market stall to her first position as a Business Psychologist and coach. Edna holds a Bachelors degree in Psychology, two Masters degrees and enjoys cycling in her free time.

She says: “Weak people in business are a waste of space and a limp handshake is unforgiveable.”

Ellie Reed

Age: 33 Occupation: Managing Director – Construction Recruitment Lives: Yorkshire

The Bradford born entrepreneur started her working life with a paper round and eventually went on to start a new business during a recession, playing a crucial role in helping the company become one of the most successful in its market. Golf lover Ellie describes herself as ‘positive, fun and driven’ and once chased a burglar out of her house at 17.

She says: “I don’t like lazy people… dole dossers that don’t want to work. I don’t like posh kids who have everything on a plate.”

Felicity Jackson

Age: 23 Occupation: Entrepreneur Creative Arts Lives: London

Felicity worked at a hairdressers as a teenager before going into children’s entertainment and eventually setting up her own company specialising in career development for actors. An avid fan of soaps and a trained actress, Felicity compares herself to Kanya King and is inspired by the T-Mobile brand.

She says: “Lord Sugar will probably find it difficult to ever say anything negative to me because I always turn it round to a positive.”

Helen Louise Milligan

Age: 30 Occupation: Executive Assistant to CEO Lives: Northumberland

Stockport born Helen describes herself as ‘calm, loyal and tenacious’ and enjoys reading in her free time. A keen swimmer, she studied Law at University and climbed the ranks from part time work as a waitress to managing a restaurant before landing her role as Executive Assistant to the CEO of Greggs bakery.

She says: “I see my job as my complete life. I work 24/7. There isn’t a cut off.”

Melody Hossaini

Age: 26 Occupation: Founder & Director – Global Youth Consultancy Business Lives: Midlands

Born in Iran, Melody lived in four different countries before settling in the UK. Melody who speaks five languages, set up a renowned UK youth organisation at the age of 13 and has won the ‘Woman of the Future’ award for her voluntary work. Global Youth Sector Entrepreneur Melody has previously worked with 12 Nobel peace prize winners including Desmond Tutu, Dalai Lama, Sherin Ebadi and was trained on climate change by Al Gore.

She says: “Don’t tell me the sky’s the limit when there are footprints on the moon.”

Natasha Scribbins

Age: 31 Occupation: Divisional Manager – Recruitment Lives: London

German born Natasha achieved only five GCSEs but went on to graduate from University with a Bachelors Degree in International Hospitality Management. Happy to get her hands dirty Natasha worked cleaning the bakeries of a major retail chain at the age of 15 before venturing into business. An avid fitness fanatic, Natasha is inspired by the Nike brand for their representation of women in sport.

She says:”I’m like a really fine tuned switch. If I need to turn it down then I turn it down. If I need to turn it up then I turn it up.”

Susan Ma

Age: 21 Occupation: Natural Skincare Entrepreneur Lives: Croydon

Born in Shanghai, adrenaline junkie Susan moved to Australia at the age of six before eventually settling in London aged 13. With her mum having no grasp of English, Susan succeeded in getting herself into a school despite her young age and went on to study Philosophy and Economics at University. She describes herself as ‘ambitious, optimistic and easy going’. Her first ever job was working on a market stall selling skin care products which she has now turned into a lucrative business.

She says: “I’m short, sweet and smiley but when I do business I mean business.”

Zoe Beresford

Age: 26 Occupation: Project Manager – Drinks Manufacturer Lives: Cheshire

Born in Stoke on Trent, Zoe joined her family firm straight from university and played an integral role in the company’s development working in sales and marketing. Zoe, who bought a house with her sister at the age of just 12, describes her attitude as not ‘why’ but ‘why not’. Zoe was awarded the ‘Rolls-Royce Manufacturing Technology Prize’ for the highest dissertation mark in the school of engineering.

She says: “I will do whatever it takes to win.”

MEET THE BOYS

Alex Britez Cabral

Age: 28 Occupation: Estate Agent Manager Lives: London

Motorbike enthusiast Alex who lived in Paris as a child, describes himself as ‘ambitious, driven, and extremely focused’. Born and raised in London, Alex’s first job was making tea in a small estate agents before becoming a thriving agent himself. His greatest achievement is taking a business losing money and turning it around to a fast growing profitable business within twelve months.

He Says: “Fear is a great motivator. If you are successful, you are unpopular, so unpopularity is a good thing.”

Edward Hunter

Age: 25 Occupation: Accountant Lives: Reading

Half-British and half-Afghan, Reading born and raised Edward’s first job was as a gardener at the age of 12. He successfully applied for a role in a global professional services firm headquartered in London straight after university and was hired as Senior Associate in the audit team before becoming an accountant at a FTSE 30 energy company. Trained at one of the world’s leading accountancy firms, Edward describes himself as a ‘man with strength of character and conviction who is honest and direct’.

He Says: “I’m the wheeler dealer who accidentally became a finance professional and wants out.”

Gavin Winstanley

Age: 27 Occupation: Managing Director – opticians Lives: Liverpool

Gavin’s first foray into working life was as a salesman at a high street clothing store and was made a manager at the age of 16. A passionate football fan, Gavin started up his own online opticians, which now has two high-street stores, after noticing the profit margins on glasses when working in a London department store.

He Says: “I want to be a big name in UK business…..I’m everything. I’m all mouth. I’m a doer. I’m a leader.”

Glenn Ward

Age: 28 Occupation: Senior Design Engineer Lives: Hertfordshire

Glenn Ward took apart and rebuilt an entire computer aged 8 and his entrepreneurial streak ensued when he began washing cars in his local area at age 14. An amateur footballer, Glenn cites Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg as his inspiration and describes himself as ‘an intelligent man with a dry sense of humour’ who can ‘read between the lines’.

He Says: “Aggression isn’t the best form of strength…I bring a marriage of technical thinking with a bit of salesman bravado.”

Jim Eastwood

Age: 32 Occupation: Sales & Marketing Manager Lives: Northern Ireland

Jim started work in his father’s fish & chip shop chipping potatoes from the age of nine and went on to  maintain top sales performances as a Sales and Marketing Manager. Jim, who was All Ireland cycling champion as a teenager, champions Richard Branson and describes himself as ‘driven, self-motivated, resilient and an eternal optimist.’

He Says: “I’m not a show pony or a one-trick pony, I’m not a jack-ass or a stubborn mule, and I’m definitely not a wild stallion that needs to be tamed. I am the champion thoroughbred that this process requires.”

Leon Doyle

Age: 26 Occupation: Fast Food Marketing Entrepreneur Lives: Leeds

Harrogate born Leon, a former paper boy and lorry driver, describes himself as ‘charming, genuine and honest’.  Leon, who survived a near fatal fall from a tree at the age of 12 once completed the Great North Run for charity. A Director and Founder of an online takeaway ordering site and publishing business, Leon notes Richard Branson and Apple as inspirational.

He Says: “I don’t like your gimmicky salesman who thinks he can sell ice to an Eskimo. Chances are he probably can’t, and why would an Eskimo buy ice”.

Tom Pellereau

Age: 31 Occupation: Inventor Lives: London

London born Tom’s first job was working on a farm sorting agricultural bulbs from mud. A keen inventor and sports enthusiast, Tom succeeded in taking a prototype made in his kitchen to the shelves of two leading pharmacy outlets in the UK. He describes himself as ‘creative, adventurous, loyal and enthusiastic’, and cites Thomas Edison as an icon.

He Says: “For me the Apprentice is a bit like the Olympics or the World Cup for entrepreneurs… I want to challenge myself, find out if I am ready to step up to this level.”

Vincent Disneur

Age: 29 Occupation:  Sales Manager – Telecoms Software Lives: Canterbury

Half-Belgian and half-Swiss, Glasgow-born Vincent is a film buff and frequent traveler with a penchant for theatre. The self confessed perfectionist who was a Liverpool mascot as a child, names Bill Gates and Richard Branson as role models and would love to have been the brains behind Microsoft.

He Says: “My positive approach and very good looks make me stand out from the crowd.”

LONDON, Friday 25th February 2011: The opportunity of a lifetime for teenage tycoons returns as multi-millionaire and self made businessman, Lord Sugar invites the UK’s most ambitious and driven teenagers to apply for series 2 of the Junior Apprentice.

Lord Sugar will be looking for candidates with real potential and the belief that they have the capability, determination and raw business talent to take on the challenge and be the one to win access to a fund worth £25,000.

The fund will go towards kick-starting his or her business career, and will be tailored to their individual career prospects and development.

Lord Sugar said: “Following the success of the first series we knew Junior Apprentice had to return.  It is an unparalleled opportunity for young people to learn lessons that aren’t necessarily taught in classrooms.  I look forward to finding the tycoons of tomorrow as they often put the adults to shame!”

To be eligible to apply you must be aged at least sixteen years of age on or before 30th June 2011 and be no older than seventeen years of age by 31st October 2011.

Applications should go to: https://apprentice.fremantlemedia.com/juniorapprentice/

Over 28,000 applied for the first series of Junior Apprentice with Arjun Rajyagor crowned winner.

Junior Apprentice is a talkbackTHAMES production for BBC ONE.

Press Contact: Taylor Herring PR

In a climate where small businesses are being encouraged to get the country’s economy back on its feet, Lord Sugar today announces a twist to the 2011 series of The Apprentice.

Next year’s successful Apprentice will no longer win a £100K job working in one of Lord Sugar’s businesses. Instead Lord Sugar will set up a new business with an initial investment worth £250,000 – a life changing opportunity in this time of economic hardship when re-growth and long-term commitment are the key to financial recovery.

The winner, whether a keen business rookie or someone who’s had several years of experience, will choose the type of business they want to set up – be it a digital online firm, catering company or fashion accessories line. Lord Sugar is looking for an Apprentice with the flair and drive to build a business, which he will jointly own with the winner, each taking a 50% interest. Lord Sugar will be mentoring and guiding his winning Apprentice, bringing with him over 40 years of his own business experience to help the business take its first fledgling steps.

Lord Sugar comments “In the past years I was searching for a candidate to employ, now I am looking for a business partner. The good news is they won’t have to put any money into the new company, I will. With an injection of £250,000 of value into this start up company , this is an amazing opportunity for someone who will choose the type of business it will be . I will be looking for a person with some expertise who can demonstrate they have a good understanding of all facets of business, so as to take this venture to another level. “

With the stakes set higher than ever, Lord Sugar and his eagle eyed advisors Nick Hewer and Karren Brady will be watching how the 16 eager new apprentices perform 12 challenging tasks. Each striving to prove they have the commercial acumen and skill to be worthy of entering into a business with Lord Sugar as winner of THE APPRENTICE 2011.

It’s not too late for those budding apprentices who would still like to apply to take part in the next series of BBC One’s THE APPRENTICE series 7 (which will broadcast in 2011) They should APPLY HERE The closing date for applications is 30th June 2010.

TX date for Series 7 is yet to be confirmed. However, Series 6 of THE APPRENTICE will broadcast later this Autumn on BBC One.

The Apprentice is a talkbackTHAMES production for BBC One. Michele Kurland is Executive Producer, Mark Saben is Series Editor. Jo Wallace is the Executive Editor for the BBC.

At 9pm on Wednesday 12th May, the 10 young candidates will face an education like no other as they embark on a series of tough tasks which will push their skills to the limit. The potential Junior Apprentices will face the same cut-throat competition as the adult series – it’s survival of the fittest and the tasks are just as challenging as ever.

From all corners of the country, each of the aspiring tycoons has been selected for their entrepreneurial flair and burning passion for business – Lord Sugar has spotted something in all of them, but only one can succeed in becoming the Junior Apprentice. Aged between 16 and 17 years old, they believe that they have the capability, determination and raw business talent to take on the challenge and be the one to win access to a fund worth £25,000. The fund will go towards kick-starting his or her business career, and will be tailored to their individual career prospects and development.

The tycoons of tomorrow – most of whom are still in education – include; a CEO of their own company, a sheep shearer, a market-stall holder, an A* student, Senior Prefect, a self-employed salesman who left school at 16 and an aspiring inventor. All of them think they have what it takes, but can they prove themselves when the pressure is on?

Lord Sugar will not accept any excuses – he started in business at the same age and expects his prospects to be able to do the same. With tasks including selling cheese, creating their own branded cupcakes for department store shoppers, and dealing in art, as well as travelling abroad to Holland for one of the most demanding foreign tasks to date, the candidates will quickly learn that Lord Sugar holds no punches when it comes to separating the wheat from the chaff, and only time will tell who has what it takes.

Failure is not an option and mistakes won’t be tolerated as Lord Sugar doesn’t waste any time in laying down the rules; “What I’m looking for is that killer instinct, that spark of genius, that nose for doing a good deal. I have a passion for helping young people to succeed, because ultimately it’s up to your generation to rescue and revitalise the country. This is a fantastic opportunity for one of you. I have set aside £25,000, now don’t think you’ll be getting your grubby hands on it if you win to buy yourself a second-hand Porsche, I’ll be making sure that the money is spent to enhance your future career or business start-up. I suppose you can look at me like the Head Teacher that you love to hate. I’ll be firm but fair and if you’re not up to scratch, you’ll be fired.”

Aided once again by no-nonsense adviser Nick Hewer, Lord Sugar will also be joined by top businesswoman and Vice Chairman of West Ham, Karren Brady. Karren knows first-hand the scrutiny the candidates will be under having taken part – and subsequently won – Comic Relief Does The Apprentice in 2007. Both Nick and Karren will be keeping a close eye on the proceedings and helping Lord Sugar to find Britain’s brightest young entrepreneur.

The candidates will live in a luxurious Georgian townhouse in Islington, London, for the duration of the show. For some, it’s their first time away from home, but for all it’s the chance to experience what life could be like as a high flyer. When the winner is crowned they will be given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be mentored by Britain’s most famous boss.

Over 28,000 applied, but only 10 made the cut. Lord Sugar’s search for his first Junior Apprentice is about to begin.

THE GIRLS

Emma Walker
Age: 16 Education: Studying for AS Levels in Maths, Business Studies, Economics, Politics & Biology Lives: Cheshire
Facts: Emma has a passion for achieving and believes that “if you make your own bed, you should lie in it”. Selling eggs and sweets to make money, she believes in never giving up and hard work is the key to achieving success.
She says: “No matter what life throws at me I’m going to work hard to achieve my goals.”

Hannah Cherry
Age: 17
Education: Advanced Apprenticeship in IT Services & Development
Lives: Bedfordshire
Facts: Inventor Hannah admits to being competitive with an adaptable, flexible approach to work. Having achieved 100%in her Business AS Level, Hannah has gone on to achieve a multitude of qualifications as part of her IT Academy course.
She says: “I’m so driven and determined to be a success and I’m focused on what I want to achieve in the future.”

Hibah Ansary
Age: 16
Education: Studying for AS Levels in Maths, Biology, Latin & Chemistry
Lives: Manchester
Facts: Hibah believes that entrepreneurialism is in her blood – she currently helps out in her father’s business, and plans to one day open her own cosmetic surgery clinic. An advanced violinist, and self-confessed “girly girl”, Hibah is “confident and articulate”, but doesn’t take life too seriously.
She says: “It’s survival of the fittest and only someone with my stamina and my determination will make it to the number one spot.”

Kirsty Cleaver
Age: 17
Education: Higher Modern Studies, Higher Drama, Higher Business Management
Lives: Scotland
Facts: Kirsty is a self-confessed sports fanatic with an interest in “pretty much any sport”. Her first job was as a waitress in her parents’ restaurant where she served breakfast before school. Kirsty still works there now, and is involved in running the family business.
She says: “I believe you have to work hard to succeed. You have to be lucky to be good and good to be lucky.”

Zoe Plummer
Age: 16
Education: Studying for AS Levels in English, French, German, Drama and Art
Lives: London
Facts: Zoe spends her free time selling vintage clothes from a market stall in London. She is an advanced open water scuba diver who isn’t afraid to speak her mind. Zoe hopes to one day combine her love of foreign languages and business by starting up a foreign law interpretation firm.
She says: “I’m quite a charismatic, vivacious person. You wouldn’t see me on the street in a grey pinstriped suit and just blend in to the crowd.”

MEET THE BOYS

Adam Eliaz
Age: 17
Education: 8 GCSE’s
Lives: London
Facts: Adam left school at 16 determined to succeed in business. He has since gone on to run his own online company selling camping and fishing equipment. He admits that he can be argumentative, but he’s not afraid of hard work.
He says: “I am not shy and communicate with anyone and everyone.”

Arjun Rajyagor
Age: 17
Education: A Levels in Physics, Maths and Systems & Control, AS Level Further Maths
Lives: Essex
Facts: Self-confessed maths fanatic Arjun loves computers – he built his own aged 12, and now runs a repair business from his bedroom.
He says: “Always look at the end goal and find a way to get there. Do what has to be done and never allow yourself to look back in regret.”

Jordan De Courcy
Age: 16
Education: Studying for the Leaving Certificate in Maths, Irish, English, French, Business, Economics and Geography
Lives: Co. Wicklow, Ireland
Facts: Jordan set up his first business when he was 12, and now runs a juice bar in Dublin. His hobbies include graphic design and website promotion, and he also loves to cook. He is continuously adding to his business portfolio and is currently working on a natural skincare range.
He says: “I see myself as a successful business man with many different business principles.”

Rhys Rosser
Age: 17
Education: A Level History, AS Level Physics, studying for A Levels in English, Business and French
Lives: Wales
Facts: Public Speaking champion in his region, Rhys believes that the most important thing in business is to know what you are doing, and that the customer isn’t always right. His spare time is spent mainly working in his parent’s hotel.
He says: “I’m going to use this opportunity to show people that I’m not a business boy, I’m a businessman.”

Tim Ankers
Age: 17
Education: Studying for A Levels in Politics, History, Economics and General Studies
Lives: Lancashire
Facts: Tim believes that the most important thing in business is good common sense. Head Boy at his school, his first job was as a stable boy for his neighbours. Despite not coming from a farming background, Tim earns money from farm work and gardening when he’s not studying.
He says: “Be friendly to everyone, take nothing to heart and keep it simple.”

Press Contact: Taylor Herring PR +44 208 206 5151

Multi-millionaire and self made businessman, Lord Sugar left school at 16 with no money in his pocket and no qualifications but, against the odds, he battled his way to the top of his game.

Passionate about business and motivating young people to embrace their inner entrepreneur, Lord Sugar has decided to give 10 of the UK’s most ambitious and driven teenagers the opportunity of a lifetime to compete for the title of Junior Apprentice.

The 10 candidates, aged 16-17 years old, all believe that they have the same potential, determination and raw business talent to take on the challenge and bid to win access to a fund worth up to the value of £25,000. The fund will go towards kick-starting his or her business career, and will be tailored to their individual career prospects and development. Each of the young candidates has been selected for their entrepreneurial flair, interest and passion for business – Lord Sugar has spotted potential in all of them, but only one can succeed in becoming the first Junior Apprentice.

For the first time, Nick Hewer will be joined by top businesswoman and Vice Chairman of West Ham, Karren Brady, to keep a close eye on the young candidates throughout the process. Karren knows the scrutiny the candidates will be under having taken part – and subsequently won – Comic Relief Does The Apprentice in 2007.

The aspiring tycoons will face the biggest business challenge of their lives to date as they embark on a series of tough tasks which will push their skills to the limit. Before they begin with their first task of selling cheese to passing trade and businesses, the candidates check out their luxurious new home, armed with the knowledge that they may not get to enjoy it for too long.

Starting with the five boys against the five girls, they all know that the pressure is on and only one thing counts – profit. At the end of their first day, one team will win and the other will end up facing Lord Sugar in the boardroom.

Who will be the first to hear the infamous words “You’re Fired”?

Yasmina follows in the footsteps of last year’s winner, Lee McQueen, and previous winners Simon Ambrose (2207), Michelle Dewberry (2006) and Tim Campbell (2005).

In last night’s final task, Yasmina battled it out with 27 year-old Licensing Development Manager, Kate Walsh, managing a team of this year’s fired candidates in the toughest task to date – designing an original box of chocolates, creating a brand and advertisement, and presenting them to a room full of industry experts.

Although Yasmina and her team – consisting of Howard, Lorraine, James and Philip got off to a shaky start, she quickly pulled herself and her team together and held a focus group, before deciding to target consumers searching for an “electrifying” chocolate experience. With a strong brand identity in place with “Cocoa Electric,” and a confident pitch Yasmina won over both the experts and Sir Alan, despite the actual chocolates being accused of lacking in quality.

Meanwhile, Kate’s team – consisting of Ben, Debra, Kimberly and Rocky, designed “Choc D’Amour”, a three-tier box of chocolates aimed at couples enjoying a romantic night in. But Kate’s high prices didn’t fit with her positioning in the mass consumer market as a credit-crunch alternative to a night out. However, Sir Alan did compliment her on the innovative idea and outstanding quality of the product.

In the nail-biting final boardroom scene, Sir Alan told the girls that choosing who to hire would be the hardest decision he had ever had to make over the past five series. He told them: “You are two very, very, very good finalists.”

When Sir Alan asked Yasmina what she’d learned over the last twelve weeks, she replied: “The highlights for me were doing things I’ve never done before, and finding that I’d done them well. Yesterday I pulled it off… that was such a massive personal achievement to know that I could do that, and can go and do it again…I know you don’t want to take a risk on me, but letting me slip through your hands would be a much bigger risk.”

Yasmina confidently answered Sir Alan’s tough questions on her already successful restaurant business, by telling him: “All it should say (owning my own business) is that I’m damn good at what I do and that I’ve got a creativity and a spark about me and I’m a risk taker. Right now I’m determined, I’m eager to learn….I’ve grown up as a natural businessperson… I look at everything from a business perspective and I think that’s the main difference between me and Kate.”

Sir Alan decided on his winner and said: “It’s a tough decision. You are the best that I’ve ever had in the final in this boardroom, that I promise you. My instincts are telling me… Yasmina… YOU’RE HIRED!”

After the final Yasmina said: “I really believed (that I was going to win), until I met Kate!… I’m absolutely up for it. I think Sir Alan knows my qualities, the best way to make use of me.”

Sir Alan said: “Yasmina seemed to have that real business instinct, not just in sales or anything like that, but (she’s) innovative and understands the plot of where we’re going… It’s gut instinct… I can’t explain it.”

He also commented on Kate, saying: “She’s got nothing to worry about. She’s a very bright young lady… Any time she wants to call me for any advice or anything like that, she’s welcome to.”

Yasmina will take up a role at Amscreen, Sir Alan’s digital signage company. She will be working in the firm’s healthcare division, where she will be responsible for building up a team of sales people. This division is tasked with supplying doctor’s surgeries and hospitals with free-of-charge digital signage units, upon which adverts and patient messages will be shown. It is expected that Yasmina will start her new job with Amscreen in the coming weeks.

Press Contact Taylor Herring PR 0208 206 5151

The Apprentice comes to a conclusion on Sunday 7th June at 9pm on BBC One. The finalists will battle it in the toughest task yet to win the coveted six figure salary with multi-millionaire, no-nonsense businessman, Sir Alan Sugar.

The fifth series of the job interview from hell has regularly pulled in the highest ratings yet, with the launch episode attracting over 8 million viewers. Sir Alan is aided once again by his advisers, Nick Hewer and Margaret Mountford, as he sorts the wheat from the chaff in a series of gruelling tasks and explosive boardroom scenes.

Viewers will be kept on the edge of their seats as they find out who will hear the sought after words: “You’re Hired!”.

For further information contact: Ashley.charles@taylorherring.com

Each team is given 10 identical items to sell in a day, including a medical skeleton, an old fashioned commode chair, an oriental rug, a box of books and a pair of vintage shoes. With a warning not to take anything at face value, the teams have until 6.00pm to sell everything for a profit. But first they must work out how much everything is worth. So, will it be a bargain hunt or sale of the century as the candidates attempt to identify the hidden gems and spot the red herrings?

As ever, Nick and Margaret are on hand to keep a watchful eye over proceedings. In the boardroom, Sir Alan will decide who’s proved priceless and who’s been worthless as one more person finds themselves in the firing line.

The Apprentice, tonight at 9pm on BBC One