Nestlé Toque d'Or®, the UK's premier student catering competition – announces the College of Food, University College Birmingham has WON the coveted title at this year's awards ceremony held at the Dorchester, Park Lane, on 8th July.
The College of Food, University College Birmingham competed at the very highest of standards, against Blackpool & The Fylde College, Belfast Metropolitan College, Grimsby Institute of Further Education, and Colchester Institute in the regional finals and then the Grand Finals at the BBC Good Food Show.
Chairman of Judges, acclaimed chef James Tanner, said; "I want to congratulate the College of Food, University College Birmingham once again. The entire team really rose to the occasion at the BBC Good Food Show in the Grand Finals. I think it is incredibly easy to forget how young the individuals competing are and the phenomenal journey they have been on. It is a real test of skill, imagination, passion and commitment and what they manage to achieve is often nothing short of exceptional. I am privileged to be part of the competition and recognise the pivotal role it plays in developing the future of hospitality talent."
Nestlé Professional®, Managing Director Neil Stephens congratulates the teamsand looks forward to the future:
"I said at the beginning of the competition that the standard of entries this year had already surpassed that of previous years and how true that was. The College of Food, University College Birmingham and all the finalists have shown strength of character and skill beyond their years.
"NestléToque d'Or® is more than a competition, it is experiential learning. It is a lifetime's experience in one competition and provides a gateway to industry and an exceptional unparalleled journey. For example, our Grand Finalists have taken part in an Army style cook-off challenge – which pushed boundaries and required the teams to create and serve a three course meal in 'field' conditions – as well as taking the City and Guilds Nestlé Professional® Toque d'Or accreditation for Nutrition, Health and Wellness, which they all passed.
"It is our responsibility as an industry to find ways to encourage and nurture tomorrow's talent and Nestlé Toque d'Or® is a great example of this. We look forward to celebrating the next generation of foodservice professionals.""