Lewisham College recently hosted the Springboard FutureChef Final 2024, a prestigious national competition that nurtures the next generation of young chefs.
This exciting event, held within the College's modern training kitchens, brought together the brightest young culinary talent from across the UK to compete for the coveted title of FutureChef Champion.
The FutureChef competition, run by Springboard UK, provides aspiring chefs aged 12 to 16 with a platform to showcase their culinary skills and creativity. This year, Lewisham College’s Hospitality Hub played a key role in supporting the competition, offering facilities and staff to help support the grand finale.
The students had 60 minutes to prepare and present a meal that ‘meant something to them’, with which they had to demonstrate technical ability and innovative flair. A panel of industry professionals, including chefs and hospitality leaders, judged the participants on their cooking techniques, presentation, and overall taste.
The professional judges for the event were Chef Alex Conrad Dsouza, Executive Head Chef at Hilton Hotels and Resorts, Chef Luciano Barrow, Group Executive Head Chef at Compass Group, Chef Rashida Spyriades - Royal Opera House and Rashida’s Patisserie, and Chef David Harris, Catering and Events Chef at Trafalgar Theatres.
The talented finalists demonstrated remarkable skill and passion for the culinary arts throughout the competition. Although all contestants did a fantastic job, the two winners were Ethan Albrecht from Langly Park School for Boys with a Roast Fillet of Salmon with a Colcannon Poached Egg and Dill Cream Sauce and Jaden Elor from St. Philomena Catholic School for Girls with Jollof Rice with Chicken and a Cucumber Salad.
The event highlighted the importance of encouraging young people to develop practical skills in a professional kitchen environment, encouraging them to pursue careers in the hospitality and food industries.
The Springboard FutureChef competition not only celebrates young talent but also plays a crucial role in inspiring the next generation of chefs by providing opportunities for young people to develop their skills and pursue careers in the culinary arts. Lewisham College remains committed to supporting the future of the hospitality industry. To find out more about our Hospitality Hub, visit: lewisham.ac.uk/hospitalityacademy
