Student Darcy Cooks Up Culinary Success with Double Competition Wins

South Essex Colleges Group student proves her skills on national stage

Culinary Skills Level 2 Diploma student Darcy Westell is fast becoming a rising star in the world of professional cookery. The 17-year-old from Downham has achieved remarkable success in two major culinary competitions, bringing home top honours and showcasing the excellence of South Essex Colleges Group’s Hospitality & Catering provision.

Darcy recently took first place at the prestigious HRC Live Skills Competition, held at the ExCel Centre in London, triumphing in the butchering a chicken for sauté category. Reflecting on the experience, she said:

“The competition was terrifying — the ExCel is a massive place and the atmosphere was daunting. I practised for months and owe so much to my parents and chef Phillip Watson at SECG, for their incredible support.”

Not stopping there, Darcy also secured first place in the fishmongery category at the Inter-College Skills Show hosted by Barking and Dagenham College, where she filleted a plaice to perfection — not losing a single mark in the process.

These achievements highlight not only Darcy’s exceptional talent and commitment, but also the quality of teaching and support offered by SECG’s Culinary Skills programme.

Darcy is now setting her sights on an apprenticeship with SECG, followed by full-time work in the industry — and potentially returning to education as a teacher in the future.

“Enrolling on this course is the best decision I’ve ever made,” she said. “I would one hundred percent recommend the Culinary Skills course to anyone who is interested and dedicated to working in the industry. You gain so many skills and receive great support.”

With her passion, skill, and drive, Darcy is a name to watch in the world of culinary arts.

Find out more about our Hospitality & Catering courses on our web page.