Now in its 18th year the competition is aimed at all levels of staff employed in any aspect of education catering capable of producing excellent craft pieces. It provides entrants with the opportunity to show off their skills which would not normally be seen during their everyday profession.
The Finishing Touches Display Salon will be part of the The School Food People Show, running alongside the annual Forum on Wednesday 8th July at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole.
This year, there are 14 classes open for entries, including the introduction of 6 brand-new categories, giving even more participants the chance to shine.
REGISTER FOR FINISHING TOUCHES 2026
Your chance to win up to £350!
- Best in Class winner will receive £100 - there are 14 classes to enter!
- Best in Show winner will receive a further £250
It is easy to take part:
- Download the entry criteria, rules and guidelines
- Select the class (or classes) you would like to enter and register to take part before Friday 29 May 2026
- Confirmation of your entry and candidate number will be sent to you (early June).
- Get creative! Prepare your entry (or entries) ahead of The School Food Show taking place 8th July 2025.
- Bring your entry to the The School Food Show on 8th July for judging by the Craft Guild of Chefs.
- Best in class winners are announced in the afternoon - with prizes of £100 to be won in each class!
- Overall best in show winner will win a prize of £250!
Good luck! 🤞
REGISTER FOR FINISHING TOUCHES 2026
The full list of classes are:
- 50% Fruit Dessert
- Cakes for special diet
- Cheesecake
- Choux Pastry - NEW for 2026
- Decorated Celebration Cake
- Decorated Novelty Cake
- Flat Bas Relief Plaque
- Homemade relish, chutney or preserve - NEW for 2026
- McDougalls Victoria Sponge - Apprentice Challenge - NEW for 2026
- Muffins - NEW for 2026
- Nut-free Bakewell Tart - NEW for 2026
- Savoury Rolls - NEW for 2026
- Traybake
- Vegetarian Quiche
Register for your free ticket to The School Food People Show to see the entries on display.
If you have any questions, please call 0845 108 5504 and one of the team will be able to help you.
Sponsored by McDougalls:
"We are extremely excited and proud to sponsor the Finishing Touches culinary competition, which has such a credible reputation within the industry. It is a great opportunity for school chefs to showcase their passion, drive and phenomenal pastry skills first hand.
"Now in its 18th year, we are looking forward to seeing the outstanding entries across all categories which are open to all levels of staff employed across the education channel. Our McDougalls Flour, Flour Based Mixes and Reduced Fat Cocoa Powder offer an easy-to-use base for a range of sweet and savoury recipes from cakes and cupcakes to cheesecake and tarts – perfect for the categories open for entry for this year’s showcase.
"We are looking forward to being part of the judging panel and seeing the culinary talent that the education sector has on offer, best of luck to all entrants!"
To view images of the 2025 visit our online gallery