Professional bakery student Megan Roberts of University College Birmingham (UCB) is entering the finals of Le Cordon Bleu’s UK Scholarship Award. 

Streetly-based UCB student Roberts, 19, will take part in the finals of Le Cordon Bleu’s UK Scholarship Award on 2 June.

The scholarship from the world famous culinary school, worth £35,000, includes a place on the coveted Diplôme de Pâtisserie, followed by a three-month Diploma in Culinary Management. Luxury accommodation is provided, along with an internship under the guidance of Michelin-starred chef Claire Smyth.

Roberts said: “I’m overwhelmed and excited. It’s an honour to be in the final.” 

She left Streetly Academy at 16 to join UCB’s Level 1 Diploma in Bakery. Three years later, she is now close to completing the Level 3 Diploma in Professional Bakery.

Roberts works at Malmaison Birmingham around her studies, where she works as a commis chef. She especially enjoys patisserie and cake decoration.

"Like magic"

She said: “Patisserie is like magic, you wonder how it has been created. When you learn the skills, you suddenly understand the trick.”

Dawn Gemmell, assistant dean of UCB’s College of Food, said: “Megan Roberts is a star. From her early days at UCB, Megan has shown high motivation, excellent skills and a quiet confidence. I am so pleased for her; what a great way to finish the term. I want to wish Megan all the very best for the future.”