Springboard FutureChef has launched its 2027 competition as it begins the search for the UK’s next generation of culinary talent.
Now entering its 28th year, the school-based competition introduces young people to professional kitchens, chefs and potential careers within hospitality.
The competition runs across four stages, beginning with school heats before progressing through local and regional finals.
Twelve competitors will then advance to the National Final in London, where they will compete for the Springboard FutureChef title.
Participants receive mentoring and feedback from chefs and industry professionals throughout the competition, with chef, author and restaurateur Chantelle Nicholson returning as Head Judge for 2027.
Nicholson said: “FutureChef is an extremely exciting initiative to get youngsters involved in thinking about food and cookery.”
The programme is designed to develop practical culinary skills alongside confidence and experience of working within a professional environment.
Participants can also access mentoring, work experience and industry connections beyond the competition.
FutureChef alumni include chef and content creator Poppy O’Toole, MasterChef: The Professionals winner Tom Hamblet and Bobby Odu, who reached the final of Young MasterChef.
Chris Gamm, CEO of Springboard, said: “FutureChef is about much more than finding the next generation of talented chefs – it’s about giving young people the confidence, skills and industry connections to see hospitality as a career they can build a future in.
“We’re excited to welcome this year’s FutureChefs and see where their talent and passion takes them.”
Previous winner Phoebe Lawson, who won the competition in 2022, is now working at two-Michelin-starred Restaurant Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles.
Lawson said: “Winning FutureChef was so unexpected — just being in the final was a win. Months of practicing and hard work paid off. My mentors were so supportive throughout the experience and winning was the perfect way to say thank you to them.
“The opportunities FutureChef has given me have been life changing.”
2026 winner Kate Skinner has since worked alongside Raymond Blanc at Royal Ascot.
She said: “I just really loved it! This has opened so many opportunities and experiences for me and I’m really excited for what’s to come next.”
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