Young Cooks 2026 Winner Enjoys Unique Work Experience Opportunity at The Dog at Wingham
Social Enterprise Kent
(Copyright Text and Images Social Enterprise Kent, reproduced with kind permission)
Every year, we see young people achieving remarkable things through creativity, determination and hard work, yet many of these accomplishments often go unnoticed.
The Young Cooks programme, organised by SEK Schools, aims to change that by recognising and celebrating young culinary talent from across Kent and Medway, while providing aspiring chefs with opportunities to develop their skills, gain industry experience and build confidence in the kitchen.
On 24 June 2026, the Young Cooks Showcase Lunch 2026 took place at the award winning Dog at Wingham, bringing together young culinary talent, industry professionals, educators and programme supporters to celebrate the achievements of this year's competition winners.
The annual showcase lunch forms a key part of the Young Cooks programme, providing the overall winner with a unique opportunity to work alongside professional chefs in a commercial kitchen and prepare a special lunch for invited guests.
This year's overall winner, Virtue Anthony-David from Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School, Faversham, spent the day working alongside the talented team at The Dog at Wingham, gaining first hand experience of professional kitchen operations while helping to prepare and serve a menu inspired by her winning competition dishes.
Guests included the High Sheriff of Kent, Mr Martin Lukehurst, and his consort Mrs Lukehurst, alongside representatives from EKC Group, Mid Kent College, The Dog at Wingham, Fever Tree, Golding Homes, Brakes, Macknade Fine Foods, COOK Food and Chef's Wardrobe.
Joining the celebration were fellow competition winners Alfie Kingman from Joy Lane Primary School, Whitstable, and Emily Gretton from the School of Science and Technology, Maidstone, who were invited to experience the day and celebrate their achievements alongside Virtue.
Whilst Virtue worked in the kitchens, the young guests enjoyed an exclusive behind the scenes tour of The Dog at Wingham, led by Dog at Wingham owner Marc Bridgen, offering valuable insight into the hospitality industry and the day to day operation of an award winning restaurant.
A Menu Inspired by Young Talent
Guests were treated to a special three course lunch based on Virtue's winning dishes, showcasing both her creativity and culinary skill.
Starter
- Char Siu Pork and Suya Spiced Gyoza with Garlic Soy Dipping Sauce
Main Course
- Smoked Turkey Pepper Soup Ramen
Dessert
- Mochi and Fresh Nigerian Coconut Candy
The menu reflected Virtue's passion for food, cultural influences and flair for combining flavours, earning praise from guests throughout the event.
Virtue demonstrated exceptional professionalism, enthusiasm and talent throughout the day, impressing both the restaurant team and guests with her confidence and commitment. The experience provided an invaluable opportunity to develop practical skills, learn from industry experts and gain a deeper understanding of life in a professional kitchen.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Culinary Talent
The Young Cooks programme celebrates the culinary creativity of young people across Kent and Medway while helping to inspire future careers within the food, hospitality and catering sectors.
Through competitions, live finals, industry experiences and mentoring opportunities, the programme encourages young people to explore their passion for food, develop new skills and build confidence in their abilities.
A Collective Effort to Inspire Future Chefs
The success of the Young Cooks programme would not be possible without the continued support of its sponsors and partners.
SEK Schools would like to thank Brakes, Chef's Wardrobe, COOK Food, East Kent College, Fever Tree, Golding Homes, Macknade Fine Foods, Mid Kent College, University of Greenwich Natural Resources Institute, Vattenfall and The Dog at Wingham for their ongoing commitment to creating opportunities for young people across Kent and Medway.
Through their support, aspiring chefs are able to gain hands on experience, learn from industry professionals and develop the confidence and skills that could shape future careers in hospitality.
Together, these organisations are helping to inspire the next generation of culinary talent and ensuring that young people's achievements are recognised and celebrated.
Looking Ahead to Young Cooks 2027
SEK Schools is now encouraging schools, teachers, parents and young people with a passion for cooking to look out for the launch of Young Cooks 2027.
The competition provides a fantastic platform for aspiring chefs to showcase their creativity, gain recognition and access unique opportunities that could help shape their future careers.
Whether it's a favourite family recipe, an innovative new dish or a love of experimenting in the kitchen, organisers are keen to hear from the next generation of culinary talent.
The deadline for entries to Young Cooks 2027 will be 31 January 2027.
For more information about the Young Cooks programme and future entry details, visit:
https://sekgroup.org.uk/support/sek-schools
