Finalists Announced for the Fifth Annual Student Pastry Chef of the Year

The fifth edition of the prestigious Student Pastry Chef of the Year competition is set to take place on Tuesday 13th May 2025 at West London College, and the finalists have officially been revealed.

After a highly competitive selection process, eight of the UK’s most promising student pastry chefs have been chosen to showcase their talents in front of an elite panel of judges made up of some of the country’s most respected pastry professionals.

Each finalist will be tasked with preparing 7 identical plated restaurant desserts and 2 different petit fours, 4 of each, demonstrating not only technical precision but creativity, presentation, and flavour.

2025 finalists:

Abbie Williams – Coleg y Cymoedd
Daria Naumenko – North Hertfordshire College
Gareth Simpson-Rogers (Tay) – Coleg y Cymoedd
George Walker – Bridgwater & Taunton College
Jessica Sale – Loughborough College
Lucy Hammett – St Austell College (Cornwall College)
Phoebe Mortimer – Cornwall College
Sofia Bond – Westminster Kingsway College

Joint Head Judge, Franciane Tartari, International Pastry Consultant, said:

“The standard rises every year, and this group has risen with it. Making it this far is already a testament to your skill and dedication. Embrace the nerves—they’re proof of your passion. Trust your training, stay present, and let your creativity shine. This is your moment—enjoy every second of it.”

Martin Chiffers, Joint Head Judge and International Pastry Consultant, added:

“The quality of entries this year has been outstanding, with students showcasing exceptional technique and innovation in their entries. Competitions like this are so important for developing the next generation of pastry chefs giving young talent the chance to grow, shine, and be inspired by the very best in the industry. Student Pastry Chef of the Year has fast become one of the most prestigious college competitions and an unmissable event on the pastry calendar. I also thank my fellow distinguished judges for their dedication, passion, and invaluable support, and I wish all the students the very best of luck in the final. I look forward to tasting and seeing their creations.”

Meet the Judges:

A 13-strong panel of leading pastry professionals, including:

Franciane Tartari – Freelance Executive Chef/International Pastry Judge (Joint Head Judge)
Martin Chiffers – International Pastry Consultant (Joint Head Judge)
Michael Kwan – The Dorchester / UK Pastry Team
Biju Joshwa – Sheraton Grand Park Lane
Mauro Di Lieto – Bake Off: The Professionals Winner 2023
Miranda Reci – Freelance Pastry Chef
Michael D’Angelo – Kensington Roof Garden
Bobby Singer – The Savoy Grill by Gordon Ramsay
Nelson Sa – Freelance Executive Pastry Chef
Thibault Hauchard – Claridge’s
Rebecca Marshman – BaxterStorey
Mohan Boddula – Sexy Fish
Nicole Mckenzie – Petite Patisserie
Nicolas Houchet – Executive Pastry Chef at The Savoy