The next generation of Michelin-starred chefs are set to be inspired by the launch of an exciting new competition, hosted by Blackburn College and in partnership with top chefs Nigel Haworth and Paul Heathcote MBE.
The ‘Reg Johnson Young Chef Schools Competition’ celebrates the late Reg Johnson’s legacy of encouraging talent and innovation within the Hospitality industry, and aims to encourage young chefs to consider a future within the Catering and Hospitality industry.
Reg Johnson was famous for putting Goosnargh on the map by founding the UK’s foremost poultry producer Johnson and Swarbrick, supplying the likes of Northcote, Hix Restaurants and Fortnum and Mason‘s Gallery Restaurant.
Nicola Clayton, Director of Business Development and External Engagement at Blackburn College said: “The Reg Johnson Young Chef Schools Competition champions young chefs and helps to bridge the gap between industry and education.
“There is a national skills shortage for excellent chefs resulting in plenty of opportunities for students to develop a fantastic career within Catering and Hospitality.
Nicola added: “Blackburn College offer a number of Catering and Hospitality programmes within their purpose built training kitchens and student-led restaurant.
“We are delighted to be hosting both the regional heats and the finals and are proud to continue preparing and encouraging young chefs to enter the industry.”
Michelin-starred chef Nigel Haworth of Northcote said: “The competition aims to increase students’ culinary skills and the winners of the regional heats will be mentored by myself and Paul.
“Students will be able to discover the breadth of careers available to them within the industry, win fantastic prizes and learn how to incorporate fresh, local ingredients into their menus.”
Prizes on offer include a Northcote Cookery School Prize; a meal for six people at Northcote from the acclaimed Tasting Menu; quarterly continuing professional development programmes for school teachers and a local produce food hamper.
The overall winner will receive a trophy and a piece of catering equipment for their school. The winning dish will also be featured and on sale at Blackburn’s National Festival of Making on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th May 2018.
Paul Heathcote MBE said: “Reg was very dear to me and he was always passionate about encouraging young talent. I think that he would be absolutely delighted that we are continuing his excellent work.”
Sponsors of the competition include; Blackburn College; Johnson and Swarbrick; Northcote; Heathcote and Co; Hive Business School; Lancashire Enterprise Adviser Network; The National Festival of Making; Ribble Farm Fare; Future U; Sousvide Tools; Blackpool and the Fylde College.
Schools may enter as many individuals or teams of two as they like and applications must have been received by Friday 9th March 2018. The Regional Heats will be held on Monday 16th and Tuesday 17th April 2018.
To find out more about The Reg Johnson Young Schools Competition and to apply online, visit www.blackburn.ac.uk/young-chef
