Event preview: Skills for Chefs
The annual cheffing soiree returns to Sheffield with the stated aim to provide ‘a culinary showcase of excellence and innovation’.
The 26th annual Skills for Chefs Conference will be held on 25th and 26th June in Sheffield. This prestigious event continues its tradition of bringing culinary professionals and educators together to celebrate and explore the evolving landscape of the culinary arts.
Opening Night: An Audience with Aktar Islam
The conference will commence on the evening of the 25th with an exclusive session titled An Audience with Aktar Islam at Inox, held The University of Sheffield. Islam, the acclaimed chef patron of the two Michelin-starred Opheem in Birmingham, will share insights into his culinary journey and the evolution of modern Indian cuisine. His achievements mark Opheem as the first Indian restaurant outside London to receive a Michelin star, and one of only two Indian restaurants in the UK to hold two stars.
The session will be hosted by Joe Hurd, a renowned chef and television presenter known for his work alongside culinary legends such as Heston Blumenthal and Gennaro Contaldo. Hurd’s engaging interview style promises to provide attendees with a captivating and informative experience.
Day Two: Culinary Demonstrations and Workshops
The 26th will feature a comprehensive programme of culinary demonstrations and workshops held at Sheffield College, showcasing the talents of some of the UK’s most esteemed chefs. These include:
- Gareth Ward: Chef-owner of the two Michelin-starred Ynyshir in Wales, Ward is celebrated for his innovative approach that blends Japanese techniques with Welsh ingredients, offering a unique and immersive dining experience.
- Michael Wignall: As chef patron of The Angel Inn at Hetton, Wignall delivers contemporary cuisine that has earned the establishment a Michelin star and five AA rosettes, reflecting his commitment to excellence and creativity.
- Adam Smith: Executive chef at Coworth Park, Smith leads a team across three sites, including the Michelin-starred Restaurant Woven by Adam Smith. His culinary prowess was recently showcased at the Great British Menu banquet in Paris.
- Tom Booton: At just 26, Booton became the youngest head chef in the history of The Grill at The Dorchester. His modern British cuisine reflects a fresh and dynamic approach to fine dining.
- Lewis Wilson: As head pastry chef at The Ritz London, Wilson oversees a team of 18 pastry chefs, creating exquisite desserts that uphold the hotel’s prestigious reputation.
- Martin Eccles: A master butcher associated with the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board, Eccles will provide butchery demonstrations and insights into meat education and product development.
Chefs’ Panel: Insights and Discussions
The day’s program will conclude with the Chefs’ Panel, chaired by Hurd, featuring discussions on current trends and challenges in the culinary industry. The panellists will include:
- James Golding: head of food education at the Prept Foundation and former chef director of The Pig Hotel Group, Golding brings a wealth of experience in sustainable and educational culinary practices.
- Tim Allen: Chef-owner of the Michelin-starred sō-lō, Allen’s dishes are celebrated for their creativity and depth of flavour, reflecting his extensive experience in high-end dining.
Gala Awards Dinner and Young Restaurant Team of the Year
The conference will culminate in the Gala Awards Dinner at Firth Court, The University of Sheffield, where the winners of the Young Restaurant Team of the Year competition will be announced. This prestigious competition highlights the skills and teamwork of emerging culinary talents from across the UK.
Supporting the Future: Partnership with Prept Foundation
This year’s conference proudly partners with the aforementioned Prept Foundation, a charity dedicated to inspiring young people through food education. The foundation’s programs aim to build stronger food foundations for children nationwide, fostering the next generation of culinary professionals.
The Skills for Chefs Conference 2025 promises to be an enriching experience for all attendees, offering opportunities to learn from industry leaders, engage in meaningful discussions and celebrate the future of the culinary arts.
Essential info
What? Skills for Chefs
Where? Sheffield
When? 25th and 26th June
More info: skillsforchefs.org.uk
You may also be interested in…
