Leeds City College

Leeds City College was proud to host Leeds-based children’s cancer charity Candlelighters for their ‘ready steady cook’ style competition this April.

The event was the second of its kind run by the children’s cancer charity, and took place in the Printworks campus state-of-the-art training kitchens.

The charity welcomed organisations across the city to take part in a competitive cook-off in aid of donating vital funds for Candlelighters, raising a total of £5290 from the event.

Participants included staff from Dovetail & Slate, Leeds College of Building and Intuitive Business Intelligence.

The competition was once again hosted by celebrity chef and presenter Briony May Williams and saw 10 teams of two put their culinary skills to the test.

Sue Patterson, Candlelighters Trustee, said: “Our second Ready Steady Cook in support of Candlelighters Trust at Leeds City College’s Printworks campus yesterday was an amazing success.

“Today wouldn’t be possible without other people. There’s been a real effort from Leeds City College so thank you to them. Days like this only happen when people collaborate and get behind a great cause.”

Candlelighters provides emotional, practical and financial support for families as well as investing in research to improve the outcomes and lives of children with cancer.

Staff from Leeds City College’s parent organisation Luminate Education Group took part with Group Vice Principal – Curriculum and Skills, Natalie Wilson, partnered with Andrea Cowans, Director of Student Life, on one of the teams, while Kelly McAllister, Group Director of Apprenticeships and Joanne Patrickson, Director of Business Development were in another.

Joanne Patrickson and Kelly McAllister were announced runners up with their creation impressing the judges.

Each team was tasked with cooking a main course and a pudding using ingredients provided by Company Shop Group, the UK’s largest redistributor of surplus food.

The teams each had 30 minutes to discuss their plans and choose their ingredients from the pantry before beginning to cook.

With only two hours to produce their two courses, the contestants were thrilled to have some of our Level 2 or Level 3 Culinary Skills students assisting them who were able to offer support and technique tips.

Andrea Cowans said: “It’s been an amazing opportunity for different businesses and charities to come together and support an incredible cause and working closely with our student helpers has shown us the skills they develop in their courses.”

Natalie Wilson said: “It’s the second year I’ve taken part in this really important event for Candlelighters. We’ve been able to see first-hand the impact it has on our learners. It’s a superb event with the opportunity for our Level 2 and Level 3 students to build on their skills and share their expertise.”

The event was a great showcase of our students’ talent and professionalism. All funds raised on the day will go directly towards supporting families affected by childhood cancer across Yorkshire.

Emma Bexon, Deputy Head of Department for Travel, Food and Drink at Leeds City College, said: “It was a privilege for the department to host the Candlelighters Trust fundraiser. We were incredibly proud of our Level 1 and Level 2 Culinary Skills learners, who showed real passion, professionalism, and teamwork throughout the event.

“A special thank you also to our amazing staff team, Emily Walker and Andrea Guardascione, for embedding such high standards and supporting the learners throughout the day.”