Carys Williams beat tough competition from local students to represent Wales in the Springboard FutureChef 2025 final.

The next generation of homegrown chefs continue to make their mark on the local culinary scene, as the 2025 Northern Ireland champion of the Springboard FutureChef competition has been announced. Lubo Mulkerns from St. Paul’s High School, Bessbrook returned to the competition for a second year to pick up the regional trophy for 2025, and will now go on to represent Northern Ireland in the UK-wide final in London next month.

The S4 youngster impressed FutureChef judges at the regional final in Elgin earlier this month.

The next generation of homegrown chefs continue to make their mark on the local culinary scene, as the 2025 Northern Ireland champion of the Springboard…

Coleg Cambira welcomed some of North Wales’ most promising young culinary talent to the first-ever Wrexham heat of the Springboard FutureChef competition. Seven budding chefs from Years 9 and 10 took part in the contest – held at the college’s Iâl Restaurant - including two learners from Cambria’s GCSE Hospitality and Catering school links programme. Representatives from Ysgol Clywedog, Denbigh High School, Ysgol Bryn Alyn, Rhosnesni High School and The Maelor School in Penley took part in the challenge, which saw competitors tasked with producing one dish and two portions on a strict £6.50 budget, showcasing impressive technical ability, creativity and calmness under pressure.

Stirling-based private chef Mark Heirs, who was known as a cherished supporter of industry charity Springboard, has died.

The S4 youngster impressed FutureChef judges at the regional final in Elgin earlier this month.