Felsted school chef in final of LACA School Chef of the Year

Brenden Eades, a chef at Felsted School, was one of 11 UK finalists in the the LACA School Chef of the Year (SCOTY) competition, and demonstrated his culinary skills by creating a mung bean and lentil main dish, complemented by a fruit tuile dessert.

His creations have since featured in a recipe book from competition sponsor Bisto, part of Premier Foods Foodservice.

Bollywood style mung bean and lentil dish, bhaji rosti and crisp chapati wrap (Image: Felsted School)

Mr Eades said: "SCOTY is a very well-known and prestigious event with an impressively long history and I really wanted to be part of that.

"I was initially a little apprehensive about entering a cooking competition as I’ve never done anything like this before (but) I’m so glad I did though, as it met all my expectations and more.

"On making it to the national final: I knew I was competing against some very talented chefs, and this was a huge bonus to my own professional development.

"It was fantastic to share ideas and techniques with other chefs who work in the same kitchen environment and face similar challenges to me every single day.

Citrus jelly top, cheeky cherry bottom and ginger tuile (Image: Felsted School)

"As a result of entering SCOTY, I made countless new friends and industry contacts.

"I would strongly encourage any school chef who is considering entering the competition to just go for it - you have absolutely nothing to lose but everything to gain."

The LACA's competition, celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2024, recognises the role chefs play in maintaining the nutritional balance of meals served in schools.