Wicklow Young Sustainable Chef Challenge 2026

Wicklow Naturally are delighted to invite Wicklow’s Secondary Education Centres to take part in the Wicklow Young Sustainable Chef Challenge 2026 —an engaging and hands-on competition designed especially for all Secondary students. A team can be composed of one to three members.

This initiative celebrates the very best of local food, sustainability, and healthy living, encouraging students to explore where their food comes from and how their choices impact both their health and the environment. Set against the backdrop of Wicklow’s rich agricultural heritage, the challenge empowers students to think creatively while developing practical life skills. The final will take place at the annual Tinahely show where the finest of Wicklow’s produce is on display.

Participating teams will work together to design, prepare, and present a nutritious dish using locally sourced Wicklow ingredients. Along the way, they will consider key themes such as seasonal produce, reducing food waste, and making environmentally responsible choices in the kitchen. The competition not only builds culinary confidence but also strengthens teamwork, communication, and critical thinking skills.

The challenge is structured in a simple and accessible way for schools:

• Students begin by researching and planning their dish, including its nutritional value and sustainability considerations
• This is followed by a practical cooking phase, where teams bring their ideas to life
• Finally, students present their dish to judges, explaining their choices and the story behind their ingredients

This competition aligns strongly with learning objectives and offers valuable cross-curricular links with Home Economics, Geography, Business, and CSPE.

We warmly encourage local education centres to get involved in a celebration of local food, sustainability, and student creativity.