North West chef advances to SCOTY national final
The 2025 SCOTY competition is open to all kitchen-based staff involved in the daily preparation of pupils’ meals in schools across the UK whether from a local authority or contract-catered site, managed in-house, academy school or part of a Multi-Academy Trust.
Rhodes-Heaton took part in the North West regional heat at Rational’s Kitchen in Cannock. Although he was the only school chef competing in the heat he still had to create his school complaint two dishes to time. The North West regional final took place alongside the Wales regional heat.
Competitors must prepare, cook and present four portions of a main course and dessert with a total food cost of £1.70 per head in 90 minutes that meet the School Food Standards and Eat Well Guide.
For his main course he cooked Tandoori chicken served with savoury rice, pitta and yoghurt and mint sauce. Rhodes-Heaton created a home made freshly baked apple and cinnamon crumble with custard for his dessert.
School meal providers can register for free entry to the School Food Show to watch the national finalists in action.