Justin Tomlinson MP joined Swindon College principal Andrew Miller and the College's finance team to judge students' business plans in a 'Dragon's Den' style event.
The students were taking part in the first round of the Barclays Money Skills competition that challenges the teams of students to come up with a business idea and pitch it to judges. The top three teams are then put through as the College's representatives in further rounds with the grand finale taking place in London.
The judges saw pitches from a pet care business, plumbing and electrical repairs, natural beauty products and upcycling.
Justin Tomlinson MP said "I owned my own small business before I became an MP and it was the best thing in the world. I know that young people are enthusiastic about business but often just need a little help to get started. This competition is a great way for them to test out their business ideas."