Plans are now underway for another memorable event, with the focus being more about learning and skills development in 2014.

This year a new partnership has been forged between Nestlé and PACE (Professional Association for Catering Education), leading to a Nestlé Toque d’Or programme directly aligned to the national curriculum and feeding into existing module content.

The success of last year’s employment initiative has also led to a new pledge from Nestlé Professional for 2014: every one of the 90 students that passes through to the heats stage will be offered the chance to gain a work experience placement.

The competition is aimed at student teams, who are still learning their trade in the kitchen and front of house, which starts with a paper entry, continuing through to regional heats and the grand finals. Once again, renowned chef James Tanner will head the judging panel.

Neil Stephens, managing director for Nestlé Professional UK&I, commented: “In 2014, Toque d’Or continues to evolve and mirror the needs of the wider industry, and our focus on skills development and youth employment is reflected in the changes we have made in this 26th year of the competition.

“We have made these changes to ensure the students are receiving an educational experience as well as being tested on what they know. Practical experience is crucial to ensuring the next generation of hospitality stars are prepared for the real world of work.

“While several elements of Nestlé Toque d’Or have changed this year, its enduring aim remains the same: to inspire careers in the hospitality industry and identify the new class of rising stars.”

Paper entry judging is currently in progress, from which only 30 teams will be selected to go forward to the regional heats. These heats will take place from February 3-7. Six teams will then be chosen to compete in the grand finals, which will commence on March 6. The winning team will be announced at a special awards ceremony at The Dorchester in London on April 2.

For further information go to www.nestle-toquedor.co.uk