The competition aims to encourage the development of cookery skills in young people.  The pupils reaching this stage of the competition were to be judged on various criteria such as costing, presentation, skills used and taste.  So, after much preparation and practise,  it was with nervous excitement and anticipation the two girls headed to Aylesbury for the Local Finals on on Thursday 7 December.

We are delighted to announce that Maddie Todd’s excellent two course meal of sea bass with pea puree, followed by beetroot and chocolate cake won this stage of competition. On the day Maddie was presented with a certificate and cookery book and will also receive her own set of chef whites; she now goes forward to the South East Regional Final in Crawley next February.

Congratulations also to fellow pupil Mille who was placed third.  After the event the girls praised their teacher Mrs Irons for her time in helping them prepare, and expressed their thanks to professional chef Giancarlo Caldesi for sharing his knowledge and expertise with them in his restaurant’s kitchens.  

When asked what they had learned from the experience Maddie said, “Mr Caldesi taught us we must practise, practise, practise and to taste the food, and only serve up things we would be pleased to eat.”

Mr Wilding, Administrative Principal and who judged our internal competition commented:

“We congratulate both the girls on their fantastic achievement.  However we would also like to make a special mention to Maddy Burwash, who although won our internal competition, decided to step back this year and give the joint runners-up, Maddie Todd and Millie Akerman, their own chance to cook at this year’s Future Chef area round. Does this not define a Claires Court girl?”