Young Chef Competition 2025/2026
Young Chef Competition 2025/2026
Winner
Alex Bourne King Henry VIII School Abergavenny
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Alex Bourne with Food
Runner Up
Ryder Frederick Cowbridge School
Ryder Frederick with Food
Judging
Abergavenny Rotary Club Hosts Successful District Young Chef Competition at King Henry VIII School
Abergavenny Rotary Club proudly hosted the Rotary District Young Chef Competition on Saturday 28th February 2026 at King Henry VIII School, welcoming talented young cooks from across the district for a day showcasing outstanding culinary skill and creativity.
The competition, part of Rotary’s national Young Chef programme, challenges participants aged 11–17 to prepare and present a nutritious two-course meal within a set budget and strict time limit. Throughout the day, the school’s food technology department was filled with energy and focus as competitors demonstrated impressive technical ability, excellent organisation, and flair in presentation.
After careful deliberation by the judges, Alex Bourne from King Henry VIII School was announced as the District Winner. Alex will now go forward to represent the area at the Cluster Final.
The runner-up was Ryder Frederick from Cowbridge School, who also impressed the judges with a highly accomplished performance.
The standard of cooking was praised as exceptional by the judging panel, who assessed competitors on preparation, hygiene, organisation, taste, presentation, and value for money.
Abergavenny Rotary Club extends sincere thanks to the judges for generously giving their time and expertise:
• Danielle Phillips from The Gaff Restaurant
• Lorella Attaccalite from The Fuzion Restaurant
Special thanks are also given to Mrs Brassington, Food Technology Teacher at King Henry VIII School, for her invaluable support in organising and hosting the event.
The Club was delighted to welcome several Rotary representatives and guests who attended to support the young chefs, including District Governor Ian Hughes, Assistant Governor Brian Pippen, and Abergavenny Rotary President Keith Willard.
President Keith Willard commented:
“The standard of cooking we witnessed was truly inspiring. These young chefs demonstrated not only excellent culinary skills but also confidence, creativityand professionalism. We are extremely proud of all who took part and wish Alex every success in the next stage of the competition.”