Newham’s budding business brains could benefit from guidance given by a college run by a Dragon’s Den judge.

The Peter Jones Enterprise Academy will announce in January whether Newham College will become its London base.

Helen Emberton, the academy’s head of curriculum, visited the college on December 7 to see how it supports business.

Geoff Crook, the East Ham campus director, said: “We’re in a great position to develop a reciprocal relationship with the academy.

“We’ve developed initiatives that have helped thousands of people and businesses, from comprehensive regeneration projects to short training courses.

Mrs Emberton met businessmen and students working with the college’s Centre for Innovation and Partnership.

Among them was Jayant Raniga, brand manager of the independent Forest Gate jewellery manufacturer and retailer PureJewels.

He pledged to support Newham’s College’s bid.