Young traders are once again taking over an Oxford shopping centre in a bid to show off their business acumen.

For the tenth year, pupils from 20 Oxfordshire schools will visit Templars Square, Cowley, to compete for shoppers' custom, as part of the Young Enterprise programme.

During the scheme, students learn the rudiments of business, including setting up a board of executives, selling shares, marketing their produce, and, finally, liquidating their firms.

But, on Saturday, January 26, they will show-off, and try to sell, their wares, including jewellery, T-shirts, digital photos, glassware, stress-relievers and candles.

The Oxford Mail, like other county businesses, has played a major part in helping keep the 735 students involved.

Publishing manager Tom Mitchell has offered guidance to pupils as a school adviser, and sits on the Young Enterprise Oxfordshire board.

He said: "Volunteer business advisers give students advice on how to appoint a board of directors from their peers, raise share capital, and market and finance a product or service of their own choice.

"For most, it's their first taste of business and most think it will make them millionaires, but they soon learn that it can be very hard work! They are all extremely enthusiastic."

Young people taking part in the programme are welcomed by Templars Square staff.

Templars Square manager Wendy White said: "Each year it is a great showcase for the achievements of these young people who started their Young Enterprise companies in September.

"It shows how their skills, knowledge and confidence have grown in such a short time."

Young Enterprise is a national charity which was founded in 1963 to inspire and equip young people to learn and succeed through enterprise.

Schools and businesses interested in taking part should call John Smith, Young Enterprise Oxfordshire development manager, on 01235 525518.

Schools take a trading part Abingdon and Witney College, Abingdon

Bartholomew School, Eynsham

Bicester Community College

Bloxham School, near Banbury

Burford School and Community College

Didcot Sixth Forms

Fitzharrys School, Abingdon

Gillotts School, Henley

Headington School, Oxford

Kingham Hill School, Chipping Norton

Lord William's School, Thame

Marlborough School, Woodstock

Matthew Arnold School, Oxford

Our Lady's Convent, Abingdon

Oxford College of Further Education

Oxford High School, Oxford

Peers Upper School, Littlemore

St Edward's School, Oxford

The School of St Helen and St Katharine, Abingdon

Wychwood School, Oxford