The competition is open to all kitchen-based staff involved in the daily preparation of pupils’ meals in schools across the UK whether from a local authority or contract-catered site, managed in-house, academy school or part of a Multi-Academy Trust. Register to take part in the 2026 edition of the competition.
The 2025 SCOTY competition was won by Erin Ward from Holmer Green School (Impact Food Group). Her main course was pork bao bun, spring onion puree and rainbow slaw. For dessert she created sweet nacho chips, lime mousse and fruit salsa.
The winner will also receive 2026 LACA School Chef of the Year trophy and an invitation to a calendar of catering industry events. The national second and third place winners will receive £500 and £300 respectively.
The full entry pack, rules and criteria will be coming soon.