Ysgol Casmael Pupils Win Pembrokeshire Junior Chef Title at Narberth Cook-Off
Ysgol Casmael pupils Ellie Price, Alys George and Noah Sinnott secured the Primary Junior Chef of the Year title at The Grove in Narberth on Tuesday, November 3. The trio triumphed in a live cook-off against finalists from Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi and Prendergast School. Their victory followed a county-wide challenge involving primary schools across Pembrokeshire.
The winning team presented a three-course menu that celebrated local Welsh produce and sustainable ingredients. Their culinary skills were judged on creativity, teamwork, and an understanding of environmental impact. The competition was founded by Gyles Morris, director of Naturesbase and founder of Edueco.
The menu opened with wood pigeon breast served with a raspberry and balsamic reduction and seasonal leaves. For the main course, the pupils prepared herb-crusted, oven-baked Welsh cod with new Pembrokeshire potatoes, bacon and leeks. This was accompanied by a medley of seasonal vegetables to complete the hearty midday meal.
Dessert featured an apple and cinnamon crumble pot with Pembrokeshire honey yoghurt and fresh seasonal fruit. The trophy recognised the team’s exceptional cooking skills and their grasp of sustainable food choices. The event highlighted the importance of practical food education in primary schools.
Year 5 pupils researched local ingredients, explored food provenance, and designed their own menus. They prepared and presented their dishes in teams of three during the final. The judging panel comprised Gyles Morris, Ruby Wakely, and Douglas Balish, executive chef of the Seren Collection.
Speaking ahead of the final, Mr Morris said: “The competition is about much more than cooking.” It helps children understand where food comes from, the impact our food choices have on health and the environment, and the value of local Welsh produce. We want young people to develop practical life skills, confidence, and a greater appreciation of sustainable food.
Mr Balish added: “It has been inspiring to see the creativity and enthusiasm shown by the children.” The standard of the menus submitted has been exceptional and demonstrates just how much young people can achieve when given the opportunity.
Organisers hope the competition will become an annual celebration of food education in Pembrokeshire. The initiative aims to encourage more children to take an interest in cooking, farming, and sustainability. It also seeks to foster interest in the wider hospitality industry.
The event forms part of Edueco — The Sustainable Food Education and Skills Initiative. Its wider ambition is to make practical food and sustainability education accessible to every primary school in the UK.
