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The 2026 SCOTY competition, which is sponsored by Bisto from Premier Foods, has been launched to find the nation’s best school chef. The final date for registrations has been extended to Tuesday 6th January and the final deadline for entries is Friday 30th January 2026. Register for the 2026 SCOTY competition here.

With the competition focus on producing nutritious, delicious meals for 11-year-old primary or secondary school pupils, the LACA School Chef of the Year competition is the perfect showcase for passionate school chefs to demonstrate what they do best every day.

Brad Pearce, chair of LACA, said: “This showcase event which starts with our school chefs competing in their own regional cook offs, with the regional winners joining the final competition live at the Main Event in July 2026. It is an amazing experience for all those that take part, enabling our amazing staff to showcase their incredible talent and creativity.

“Participants are able to meet and network with school chefs from across the country at both the regional and national stage, and it’s the perfect opportunity to demonstrate their passion and professionalism. I can’t wait to follow the action from the regional heats through to the Main Event final. Best of luck to you all.”

Competitors must prepare, cook and present four portions of a main course and dessert with a total food cost of £1.75 per head in 90 minutes that meet the School Food Standards and Eat Well Guide.

Sadia Allam, foodservice channel controller at Premier Foods, added: “The LACA School Chef of the Year competition remains one of the most anticipated events in the school catering calendar, and we’re delighted that Bisto is once again sponsoring the competition this year.

“We’ll be supporting and celebrating every chef who takes part, and we’re excited to join the judging panel as we search for the next standout talent in school meals. Our Premier Foods foodservice team works closely with chefs across the UK, and we’ll be encouraging as many as possible to get involved and submit an entry. It’s a fantastic opportunity to challenge yourself, grow your skills, and potentially shine a spotlight on your school.”

Each regional final winner will receive a prize of £100 plus a place in the SCOTY final. The overall winner will get a £1,000 cash prize plus a work experience trip. Second place will receive £500 and third place will get £300.

In addition, each national final prize winner will be given the chance to work with the Premier Foods culinary team on their recipe and product development. Judging criteria for SCOTY:

• Use of Premier Foods products (10 marks)
• Working Practices in the Kitchen (20 marks)
• Creativity and Appearance (10 marks)
• Taste and flavour (10 marks)
• New for 2026: LACA are supporting the Bang in some Beans campaign (5 marks)

Download the SCOTY 2026 entry pack below. Make sure you register for the competition by the 6th January 2026 if you would like to take part.