The mystery bag of ingredients was Italian-inspired, with students using their creativity to produce a variety of impressive pasta dishes. The food looked and tasted incredible, making the job of the judges extremely difficult.

The judging panel included Mrs Hewitt, Head of Food Technology, Esther Thornton, Barnardo’s Link Worker and Alexandra Littlejohn, Community Governor. The Community team of Mrs Garrity and Mrs Barnett were also in attendance, emphasising the importance of the community in everything we do and the ability of food to bring communities together. They praised the students for their culinary skills, teamwork, and attention to detail, making it clear just how tough the final decision was.

After much deliberation, the winners were announced. Hooria and Halimah, both Year 9, who will now go on to compete in the finals at 1 Angel Square against other Co-op Academies students.

Ms Williamson, Assistant Headteacher, was incredibly impressed by the students’ efforts, saying, “The standard of cooking was outstanding, and it was fantastic to see our students working together, showing creativity, and producing such high-quality dishes. Community is at the heart of everything we do, and this event was a brilliant example of that in action. A huge thank you to Mrs Hewitt for overseeing such a fantastic competition.”

A huge well done to everyone who took part and represented the academy so brilliantly. We wish Hooria and Halimah the best of luck as they go forward to the finals—we can’t wait to see how they do!