The School Food People opens entries to 2026 Finishing Touches
The competition will take place at The School Food People Show and Forum and is once again sponsored by McDougalls from Premier Foods. Entries for Finishing Touches will close on Friday 29th May.
Brad Pearce, chair of The School Food People, commented: “We hope to see the number of entries up again this year, showcasing the profile of school catering which has never been higher and a great way to display the talents within our industry. Good luck and I look forward to seeing your entries on display in July.”
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.
Mariela Petkov, channel marketing manager of foodservice at Premier Foods, said: “McDougalls from Premier Foods is delighted to once again sponsor The School Food People’s Finishing Touches competition. This prestigious event continues to shine a spotlight on the incredible talent and dedication of school chefs, providing a platform to showcase their passion, creativity, and exceptional culinary skills.
“Our range of McDougalls Flour, Flour-Based Mixes, and Reduced Fat Cocoa Powder offers a simple yet versatile base for a wide variety of sweet and savoury creations, making them ideal for use in this competition. We’re also looking forward to being part of the judging panel and celebrating the outstanding culinary talent within the education sector.”
This year, there are 14 classes open for entries, including the introduction of six brand-new categories, giving even more participants the chance to shine. 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
Gold, Silver and Bronze certificates will be awarded to those who achieve the highest standards and a Best in Class will be picked in each category as well as a Best in Show from all categories. Best in Class winners will receive £100 each and the Best in Show winner will get an additional £250.
Steve Munkley MBE, vice president of the Craft Guild of Chefs, added: “We are so pleased to be involved with this display salon once again and every year look forward to seeing some of the great dishes and presentation pieces that are put forward. Following feedback from both judges and competitors last year, we have decided to retire some of the classes for this year and replace with six new categories for you to enter.”
Rebecca Britton from Impact Food Group was announced as the Best in Show winner at the 2025 Finishing Touches Salon Culinaire for her 50% Fruit Dessert. Register for your free ticket to The School Food People Show to see the entries on display.