A total of 43 per cent of young people admire Sir Richard Branson and Simon Cowell more than Victoria Beckham, Katie Price and Rio Ferdinand (6 per cent), finds a report from charity Media Trust.

Just under four-fifths of young people believe that their future careers will be improved by becoming more involved in business, with 49 per cent saying the opportunities currently offered by schools are inadequate.

Katie Simpson, director at Media Trust, says: ‘It’s really positive to see so many young people eager to get involved in business and keen to fulfil their potential. This is the time to engage with these young people and to increase the range of practical opportunities available including work experience, work-based learning, apprenticeships and volunteering.’

Of the 4,000 young people surveyed, 34 per cent feel the ideal age to become involved in business is 11-14 years old.

See also: Seven tips for a young entrepreneur – As a young entrepreneur, you may feel that age and experience is stacked against you, but here is how you can use your age to your advantage.