Jessica makes Le Cordon Bleu semi finals

Out of nearly 100 applications, Jessica Abigail from Exeter has been selected to attend the semi finals to fight for her place at Le Cordon Bleu London as scholarship winner.

The UK’s leading culinary school has only one place for a winning candidate to study for a Diplôme de Cuisine, followed by a three month Diploma in Culinary Management.

Jessica said:: “I am shocked and very happy, I feel so grateful and honoured that Le Cordon Bleu London chose me to go to the semi-final. I know that this is the start of my culinary journey.”

The prize is worth in excess of £35,000 and includes accommodation in central London for the entirety of the course and an internship at The Square, under the guidance of esteemed chef, Phil Howard

Jessica says: “I’m currently studying Accounting and Finance which is a big jump, but for me combining both accounting and cooking, I can really prepare myself to be a chef and the owner of a restaurant.”

“I have found culinary inspiration from Exeter due to the traditional food. Cream teas really emphasise the importance of home grown and local produce. The power of the cream tea brings family and friends together, and by having local resourced food is like having a region on a plate.” 

“In the future I would like to bring awareness to other chefs and consumers about the importance of local suppliers that provide us with natural ingredients.”

The semi finals for candidates from the South West and Wales will be held on Wednesday 1st April 2015 at the Celtic Manor, with partnering Chef Mike Bates. The finals will take place at Le Cordon Bleu London on the 1st July.