Schools from across West Cumbria test cooking skills at Lakes College

SCHOOLCHILDREN from across West Cumbria put their culinary skills to the test in a cookery competition at Lakes College.

The first Lakes Chef Showdown saw pupils from St Benedict’s Catholic High School, Solway Community School, Beacon Hill Community School, Netherhall School and Workington Academy go head-to-head in the final.

The inter-school cooking competition was aimed at learners with a keen interest in the catering and hospitality industry and encouraged them to think about sustainability and where their food comes from.

The final was held in the Graduates Restaurant at Lakes College in Lillyhall near Workington, with learners successfully qualifying after winning their school heat.

The competition was judged by Iain Glendinning, vice principal at Lakes College, and Michelin-starred chef Jack Bond from Cottage in the Wood at Whinlatter near Keswick.

Learners produced various dishes such as sushi, lasagne, burgers, katsu curry and salmon.

Catherine Wilson, careers, recruitment and admissions manager at Lakes College, said: “The event aimed to promote careers and sustainability throughout the catering and hospitality industry.

“I am very proud of all the learners who participated in the competition – they were all confident and showcased their skills and capabilities to industry standards.