The B&NES Young Chef Competition was set up with the aim of giving students the skills and knowledge to be able to prepare and cook healthy and nutritious meals.
During the first term, Norton Hill School was sent a brief by Health Improvement Specialist, Claire Riggs, from Sirona Care and Health. Students were asked to create a meal that contained two vegetables, a source of protein and a source of carbohydrates. The Food Technology Department thought it would be an excellent opportunity for the Year 9 groups to participate in.
Teachers, Gemma Roberts and Alistair Reeves, ran the first stage of the competition over two lessons. This involved giving students the brief, as well as being asked to research meals that they thought would be suitable. Students were given the task to create a time plan and a cost sheet for their homework in preparation for the great bake-off!
Several students produced outstanding plates of food. It soon became evident to staff just how difficult it was going to be to only put two students from each group through to the next round. Eventually, a decision was made to put three students through from each group to the school-based final. After a very tight contest, with students demonstrating exceptional culinary skills, the coveted two places for the competition were awarded to Maddison Hillman and Harvey Malik, who would attend the B&NES Young Chef Competition at the prestigious Ston Easton Park.
On the day of the competition, both students were excited and looking forward to preparing their dishes for local chefs and the organisers of the competition. Students were shown where they would be preparing their food and where to set up. Various secondary schools within the South West region were in attendance. Maddison prepared a chicken breast stuffed with cream cheese and basil, served with swede and potato mash and green beans, while Harvey made chicken roasted with asparagus, cherry tomatoes and rosemary, served with dauphinoise potatoes. Once the students had finished preparing their meals, they served them to the judges and waited for their decision. Unfortunately, the two Norton Hill students didn't win, but both were fantastic ambassadors for the school. They were complimented by the Head Chef of The Priory in Bath for their 'excellent kitchen craft and organisation'.
After the event, the students remarked on how much they'd enjoyed the experience. Harvey stated: "It was really interesting to meet the professional chefs and work in a commercial kitchen," while Maddison added: "It was great fun and an excellent experience."
The school and its students have already registered their interest in next year's competition.