On 26th November, twelve Frome College Year 10 students took part in the Rotary Chef Competition.

The students competed against each other to win a place in the Regional Finals, which will take place after Christmas.

The national event gives students the opportunity to cook and present to a high standard, before being judged by top chefs. Their brief was to cook a healthy three-course meal in two hours for under £20.

The day began with prepping the room and kitchen. Each student was given their own workspace for presentation, and personalised chef whites, supplied by Gracewell. The judges, Sam Perrett and James Morrison, from Orchardleigh Estate, and Simon Lewis from Gracewell, walked amongst them with strict marking criteria.

Chef, Sam Perrett, who previously worked at the Pony and Trap in Chew Magna, said: “I was amazed at how hard the students worked. The standards were very high, and there were some outstanding dishes presented.”

After a full hour of tasting and deliberation, the overall winner was announced as Maddie Blackburn. Maddie now goes on to the Regional Finals against other local schools and colleges. Izzy Hobbs, Sam Oliver and Polly Thomas all received Highly Commended for recognition of their individual dishes on the day.

Emily McMunn, Teacher of Food at Frome College, said: “I am so very proud of their achievement, and a real credit to Frome College. Congratulations to all those who took part. We would like to thank the generosity of Frome Rotary Club, Gracewell and our guest judges for giving us this opportunity, and who supported the students on the day.”