With the last regional heat completed, the full lineup of school chefs who will compete for the much-coveted national title of the LACA School Chef of the Year 2021, is now known – and includes Wendy Lohse from the Isle of Wight.
The 2021 national final, which takes place between 12th-13th October at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole, is expected to be a fiercely fought cook-off. 11 finalists will be competing which includes 9 regional champions together with 2 regional contestants the judges have decided to bring back as wild card entries.
Representing the Isle of Wight will be Wendy Lohse from Shalfleet C of E Primary School. She has been chosen as a wild card finalist and will be presenting Yakatan Quorn Ponuchos with an Aztec Alligator Pear Mousse for pudding.
In addition to the kudos of winning the national title, the 2021 champion will receive a £1,000 cash prize and the LACA 2021 School Chef of the Year trophy. The winner will also be awarded a work experience trip and an invitation to a calendar of high profile catering industry engagements. The national second and third place winners will receive cash prizes of £500 and £300 respectively.
All participants in the LACA School Chef of the Year Competition have a maximum of £1.40 to spend and 90 minutes to prepare, cook and serve an imaginative 2 course meal suitable for serving en masse in primary and secondary schools.
Commenting on the forthcoming 2021 national final, LACA National Chair, Stephen Forster said:
“Over the 20 years since this competition began, it has evolved to reflect both school food standards and food trends. Our partnership this year with Quorn reflects the current shift to reduce the amount of meat in our diet which is also emerging as a major feature of school menus. As children and young people become more environment and healthier eating aware, they are demanding more meat-free choices on their school menus.
“Our link with Quorn has allowed our amazing school chefs to respond to this trend whilst showing off their culinary expertise. The National Finalists range of dishes exemplify their creativity, skills and commitment. It’s going to be an exciting National Final. Good luck to all competitors”.
Article continues below this advertisement
