Springboard FutureChef 2026
The Springboard FutureChef 2026 competition is now open, and this year’s programme promises to be its biggest and best yet. As the UK’s leading school culinary competition, it helps talented young chefs aged 14–16 develop their culinary talent and explore exciting careers in the kitchen.
What is the Springboard FutureChef competition?
Springboard FutureChef is a nationwide, schools-based programme across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland that helps young people explore entry routes into careers in the hospitality industry. It was originally launched in 1999 with the support of celebrity chef Brian Turner, who remains a passionate advocate for helping young people build careers in the kitchen.
Open to pupils aged 14–16, Springboard FutureChef helps participants develop their culinary talent and supports pupils with practical life skills, confidence and a deeper understanding of food, nutrition and sustainability. The competition complements the school food curriculum, promotes healthy eating and also connects pupils with mentor chefs and industry professionals.
Students begin with school heats before progressing to local, regional and national finals, with each stage offering new opportunities to learn, grow and excel.
Past FutureChef champions have gone on to work in top kitchens and train under leading chefs. In 2025, Carys Williams was named the FutureChef Champion, joining an inspiring list of winners who are now rising stars in the industry.
Learn more about the programme and its success stories at the official FutureChef website or watch the short film on the Springboard FutureChef National Final 2024.
When does the Springboard FutureChef competition take place?
The Springboard FutureChef competition runs throughout the academic year, starting in late summer and culminating in a prestigious national final. Here’s the 2025-26 schedule:
- August – October 2025: School Heats
- November – December 2025: Local Finals
- January – February 2026: Regional Finals
- March 2026: National Final
Each round is judged by hospitality industry professionals and experienced mentor chefs. The competition typically attracts over 10,000 entrants from schools across the UK, making it the biggest school culinary contest of its kind.
Every stage helps young chefs build confidence and practical knowledge, giving pupils entry routes into the food and hospitality industry while showcasing their talent and commitment to developing key life skills.
What ages take part in Springboard FutureChef?
The Springboard FutureChef competition is open to secondary school pupils aged 14 to 16 – typically students in Years 9, 10 and 11 from schools across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Who are Headline Sponsor, Country Range?
Country Range is the UK’s leading independent foodservice brand, supplying over 700 professional-grade products to schools, care homes, restaurants and caterers.
As headline sponsor of the Springboard FutureChef competition, Country Range plays a vital role in supporting pupils with entry into the food and hospitality sector. Their backing helps deliver the programme in schools nationwide, providing essential ingredients, resources and visibility to help develop young culinary talent.
The Country Range Group – of which Birchall Foodservice is a proud member – has supported Springboard for several years, contributing both practical and financial support to help more pupils get involved. This partnership not only promotes careers in the kitchen but connects students with industry mentors and builds long-term interest in the sector.
Country Range’s involvement reflects their broader commitment to supporting education and skills development in foodservice. Their products are known for quality, consistency and value, making them a favourite among chefs across the UK.
Learn more about the brand and its range at countryrange.co.uk.
How can you get involved?
Whether you’re a teacher, mentor chef, careers advisor or sponsor, there are plenty of ways to take part.
Schools and individuals can register now via the Springboard FutureChef website or using the QR code below.
If your school or catering venue needs wholesale food supplies, Birchall Foodservice is here to support you every step of the way.
