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A team of catering and hospitality students at The Sheffield College are getting set to compete in the finals of a national industry event.

Ava Bower-Scott,18, Sophia Fleming, 19, and Lily Oliver, 19, are finalists in the UK Young Restaurant Team of the Year.

Len Unwin, Curriculum Team Leader, Catering and Hospitality, The Sheffield College, said: “The students have worked incredibly hard to get to the finals and I am really proud of them.

“They learn so much from competing including working well as a team under pressure, communicating effectively and applying their technical skills.

“All of this prepares them well for the industry and their careers and being part of Skills of Chefs enables them to meet some of the UK’s top industry talent.”

The competition, aimed at 21-year-olds and below, will take place during Skills for Chefs, which is being co-hosted by the college at its City Campus on Granville Road. An annual conference for industry professionals, Skills for Chefs brings together the UK’s top chefs to share expertise and knowledge.

John Williams MBE, Executive Chef, and The Sheffield College alumnus Ian Musgrave, Executive Sous Chef, both from The Ritz London which has two Michelin stars, are among the experts attending.

Organised by the University of Sheffield in partnership with The Sheffield College, the event on 1st and 2nd July 2026 attracts top industry names as well as suppliers. Each of the teams taking part will comprise two chefs, who have been tasked to create a three-course menu, and a front of house member.

Led by MSK Ingredients, the judges will observe the chefs, their skills and performance including their approach to food waste and sustainability, before tasting the completed dishes.

The front of house member of the team will be responsible for the dressing of their individual tables and stations, all service including wine, menu writing, design and description, guest interaction, and communication back to their chefs in the kitchen.

Student Ava Bower-Scott said: “To be in the finals is such an honour. I feel very proud to take part, especially with such an amazing team. I enjoy taking part in competitions as they’re a great way to develop skills. I’ve learned so much about wine and the different styles of restaurant service.”

Student Sophia Fleming commented: “I am excited to compete at such a high level. I feel really proud of my team members for being so easy and kind to work with. But I don’t think I would feel as calm without all the knowledge and experience that our mentor Len Unwin has taught us.”

Student Lily Oliver added: “I am very excited to be taking part in such a big competition. I have developed many skills and learnt new ones such as teamwork and time.”

The competition winners will be announced at the gala awards dinner on 2nd July 2026 with the first prize being an international study tour.

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Pictured: The Sheffield College's Young Restaurant Team of the Year finalists. Photo credit: MSK Ingredients.