Future Chef Competition 2025

Last week, our school community had the privilege of witnessing an inspiring display of talent, determination, and composure as one of our own stepped into the spotlight. Charlie, representing both himself and FUEL, took part in the final of the Future Chef competition, an incredible achievement in itself. What followed was a performance that not only showcased his growing culinary skill, but also his confidence, creativity, and ability to thrive under pressure.

-Charlie posing at the competition, with a big thumbs up!

Note from his teacher: We are so unbelievably proud of Charlie for the amazing way he represented himself and FUEL in the local final of the Future Chef competition this week. He had only had the chance to practice his dish 'Homemade Chilli with Freshly Made Guacamole and Fried Tortillas', once before the event and was understandably nervous. I, however, wasn’t. After seeing how calm, focused and competent he was in the kitchen, and tasting how delicious his final dish was, I knew he would smash it… and he did!

Although Charlie didn’t take first place, the judges were incredibly impressed with his skill in seasoning and preparing food with the precision of a professional chef. One judge was so impressed that they asked me to bring him to Nottingham College next year to enrol on their course. The gap between first and second place was just one point, with Charlie securing second place. The judges even explained that the margin was so close that if a place opens up in the next round, Charlie would be offered it ahead of any other participant in the East Midlands, a huge achievement.

-Charlie's homemade beef chilli with sour cream, fresh guacamole and cheesy baked tortilla chips.

Charlie’s achievement in the Future Chef competition is something our entire school can celebrate. His determination, creativity, and courage to step outside his comfort zone serve as a powerful inspiration to other students who may be considering taking part in similar opportunities. At FUEL, we are committed to helping our young people discover their passions, build their confidence, and develop real-world skills through hands-on experiences just like this.

We are incredibly proud of Charlie and the example he has set for others, and we hope his journey encourages even more students to get involved, try something new, and believe in their own potential. This is only the beginning for him, and we can’t wait to support many more young chefs and young people of all talents on their paths to success.

Well done, Charlie!