Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance Charity has launched Flight to Funding, a new competition inviting secondary schools, sixth forms and colleges to plan and pitch their own fundraising events in support of the charity’s lifesaving work.
Inspired by Dragons’ Den, the initiative asks students to develop a fundraising idea and present it to a panel of ‘Dragons’ in early 2026. The winning team will then bring their idea to life with hands-on mentoring during the summer term, before an awards ceremony and cheque presentation in September 2026.
“Flight to Funding is a fantastic way for young people to get involved in something that makes a real difference,” said Rebecca de la Bedoyere, deputy director of income generation. “It’s not only about raising money — it’s about inspiring the next generation of changemakers and community leaders.”
Three finalists will be shortlisted to pitch to judges drawn from the charity and local business supporters. The panel includes Saffron Rabey, business development manager at BMW Dick Lovett Melksham and Mayor of Melksham, who said she is excited to see creative ideas from young people and to help them explore real-world enterprise skills.
They will be joined by Josh Dolman, commercial director at Elevate Cloud, who said, “The competition offers a brilliant chance for student entrepreneurs to share ideas, gain insights from industry experts and develop their skills.” Helen Griffiths, the charity’s fundraising team leader, added, “I’m passionate about creating collaborative, purpose-driven partnerships that drive both growth and meaningful social impact.”
Rebecca de la Bedoyere, who completes the panel, said, “As someone who has worked in the charity sector for over two decades, I’m a passionate advocate for fundraising both as a professional discipline and as a way of bringing people together for a higher purpose.”
The winning team will receive support with planning, budgeting, communications and teamwork. Students will work alongside mentors and the charity’s team, gaining practical experience that can be used for future studies, apprenticeships or employment.
The competition launches this autumn with application packs and resources available now. Entries are open until January 2026.
Schools and colleges across Wiltshire and Bath are encouraged to sign up, nominate student leads and integrate the project into enterprise, PSHE or enrichment programmes. The charity can also provide guidance for staff and students on shaping a strong pitch.
For more information or to enter, visit: www.wiltshirebathairambulance.org.uk/flight-to-funding
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