Tanner and former lecturer Andy Stacey, who previously guided two teams to Toque d’Or victory – picked Westminster Kingsway for their 'overall professionalism, wonderful flexibility, highly developed skillsets and their clear passion for the industry'.
James Tanner said: “It takes a special kind of person to commit to a career in hospitality – it can be tough at times and to succeed, future chefs and managers must be able to work under pressure yet still produce a smile at the end of their shift.

“These skills are as important as being passionate about cooking and service and reflect the best of the best delivering the whole package. Every team performed incredibly – you’d never have known that some were just 18 or only had one or two years of experience under their belts – but in the end Westminster Kingsway proved they really had what it takes to go the whole way. We are all sure that they can look forward to very bright futures.”
The team from Westminster Kingsway College will all receive a ‘money can’t buy’ prize which will include a range of experiences that will further enhance their CV’s, delivered over the coming year. The team will be cooking, and be presented to guests, at the upcoming Footprint Awards, enjoy works experience at the
Dorchester under Henri Brossi, share in a master-class at Billingsgate as well as cook and serve for the renowned Sovereigns Parade three course lunch for 1,000 guests at Sandhurst.
*Nestlé Professional Toque d’Or is an annual initiative to support young people into the hospitality industry and drive the development of skills within the sector through learning and training schemes that add genuine value to those participating. It is now in its 27th year and is the leading student catering competition of its kind, offering a balanced experience for all competitors across back and front of house.