Entries open for Nestlé Professional Toque d'Or 2019

Registration is now open for the 2019 Nestlé Professional Toque d'Or competition for students and apprentice chefs at commis level in the UK.

Now in its 31^st year, the competition is the start of an influential training and development programme that bridges the gap between the theories of the classroom, work-based learning and the exciting reality of the industry.

The competition has evolved over its 30-plus years and continues to evolve with the changing needs of the UK foodservice industry and education. This year, with research stating nearly half (44%) of consumers consider the sustainability of ingredients to be important when eating out, a key competition focus is on sustainability and vegetarianism. The competition will centre around menu items that possess excellent sustainability credentials and link into health and wellbeing.

The competition is free to enter and is aimed at inspiring the next generation of talented young chefs to develop their skills, knowledge and experience. Winning prizes this year will include a once in a lifetime gastronomic trip to Europe.

Since 2016 the Toque d'Or competition has also been open to industry apprentices at commis level and well-known industry chef judges have helped them develop their careers, with James Tanner of the Kentish Hare and the Barbican Kitchen and Simon Hulstone from The Elephant in Torquay heavily involved in the annual competition.

The 2017 Nestlé Professional Toque d'Or apprentice winner Charlie Stockwell secured himself a stage and subsequent full-time position with Michelin-starred chef Sat Bains at his eponymous restaurant in Nottingham.

Katya Simmons, managing director, Nestlé Professional UK&I said: "Our aim is to provide the future stars of our industry with new skills, enhancing their learning and career. We see Toque d'Or as so much more than just a competition; we are focussed on motivating and inspiring potential talent and opening their minds to the opportunities within our industry. It's about giving them a taste of their future."

If you are a student or apprentice wanting to compete visit www.nestleprofessional.co.uk/jointoque

Registration for the competition closes on 30 November 2018.

Toque d'Or winners cook at Ascot and Principal London >>

Charlie Stockwell crowned Nestlé Professional Toque d'Or Apprentice 2017 >>

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