Biggleswade catering students cook up a treat

A team of youngsters from Stratton Upper School in Biggleswade triumphed in the Food Direct from the Farm Schools Food Challenge final.

The competition, organised by the East of England Agricultural Society, saw rival teams compete to prepare a healthy school lunchbox in 45 minutes using produce of British origin.

Judges visited Stratton Upper and other schools across the region back in April, and the team of Year 10 girls was one of eight to be entered into the final at the East of England Show in Peterborough.

The students used fresh produce from the school farm where possible and made a cheese and bacon quiche, fresh and crunchy coleslaw, green salad, a honey and oat flapjack and a strawberry smoothie.

The challenge is designed for children in Years 9 and 10 and is now in its 16th year.

Items in the packed lunch need to fit in a traditional lunchbox, and flasks and other containers can be used as long as they fit in the box.

The initiative aims to promote nutrition and develop culinary skills, highlight the benefits of using British and locally sourced produce and create a rewarding experience for students. The school will also be taking part again next year.