Pastry manufacturer Pidy has revealed the eight finalists of the Student Catering Challenge.

The challenge, which is in its first year, invited students to reinvent the classic tradition of afternoon tea, using a selection of tartlets from the Pidy range.

The finalists include:

  • Lucy Harris, West Hertfordshire College
  • Ophelia Love, West Hertfordshire College
  • Alex Buckly, Dudley College
  • Jadzia Bell, Dudley College
  • Clare Turner, London Geller College of Hospitality & Tourism, University of West London
  • Megan Bell, Walsall College
  • Mun Ni Yew, Walsall College

“It has been really impressive to see how the students have interpreted this new challenge using tartlets from the Pidy range. Each entry has been carefully thought out and is unique, which made narrowing down eight finalists incredibly tough,” said Robert Whittle, managing director at Pidy UK.

The finalists have been selected from students across the country to attend the live cook-off final on Friday 24 January at the Claire Clark Academy, Milton Keynes College.

Students will compete for the winning title and have their dishes judged by an expert panel, including chef Claire Clark and last year’s winner of the ‘Revamp the Vol-au-vent’ Student Challenge, Chloe Hammond from Milton Keynes College.

Pidy Micro with butter cream

“The creative boundaries have been pushed even further and each entry has a story to tell. I’m looking forward to kicking off the new year with the final and seeing these entries come to life!”

“Our aim is to continue inspiring young chefs by launching new innovative competitions that give students a platform to showcase their skills and talent. We know first-hand how valuable these experiences are in encouraging their careers and that’s why we bring them back each year.”

Competing in a pastry kitchen, the eight finalists will have one hour to cook and present their dishes for the title of Best Afternoon Tea.

The Pidy Student Catering Challenge was launched to support Pidy products and created specifically for catering students.

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