Abigail took part in the Future Chef regional finals at Sheffield University on Monday 5th February. Abigail made stuffed chicken and focaccia bread with lemon posset and lavender biscuits. She only had 90 minutes to make her dishes before they were judged by a number of chefs from restaurants and hotels in the area.
Future Chef assigned Abigail a mentor to support her through the regional final stage. Abigail has worked with Rob Steel, a Hospitality and Catering Chef at Gateshead College. Over the past 4 weeks she has spent hours practicing and improving her dishes each Thursday after school, at the college, as well as at weekends for her family. Abigail was supported at the competition by her parents and chef mentor.
Abigail came a very close second. Her feedback let her know the final result was between one point only, the closest they have ever had. As a result of the competition Abigail has been offered work experience at a Michelin Star restaurant as well as a number of contacts from chefs that judged the competition. She also received two cookbooks, a set of chef knives and personalised chef whites. Abigail's mentor has offered to continue supporting her and encouraged her to apply again next year.
Mrs Wickham, teacher, said "We are all very proud of Abigail, she has grown in confidence, ability and determination since the start of the competition. She has a very exciting future ahead."
