THE national final of Futurechef, the prestigious competition for aspiring chefs aged between 12 and 16, took place recently at Westminster Kingsway College, London.

Year 9 student, Dylan Willett was representing Passmores Academy as Regional Champion for London and the Southeast. Dylan had earned his place in the final after working his way through a series of challenging heats against other talented young chefs, including his best friend and classmate Ross Blackshaw.

Having fought off competition from the 12,000 young hopefuls who originally entered, Dylan was one of twelve finalists hailing from schools across the country. Dylan achieved an admirable fifth place overall.

The judging panel included celebrity chefs Rick Stein and Brian Turner, as well as other experienced industry professionals. Contestants were measured against a set of stringent judging criteria. Dylan received highly positive feedback, and experience which will be invaluable for his further development as a chef. As he will be eligible to enter the competition for another three years, Dylan plans to return next year and will continue to strive for the coveted first place.

Dylan’s teacher, Emma Jameson said: ‘Many influential representatives of the food industry attended, and Dylan was very professional and mature when talking to them about his dishes and aspirations to become a chef. He has a passion for cooking and presents dishes which are of an exceptional standard. This has been an amazing experience, and I would like to thank Dylan and Ross’ mentors, Glenn Evans and Ben Nottage for their support. I’m excited to say that both boys intend to enter again next year and are eager to start planning their dishes’.