Laura Daniels, Robert Somerville and Jessica Jackson from Manchester College spent time in the kitchens of Galvin’s at Windows Restaurant and Harrods, working under the tutelage of head chefs Andre Garrett and Allister Bishop and their respective teams.

Commenting on the work experience week, which took place last month, Daniels said: “I would just like to take this opportunity to thank Brakes for providing this fantastic prize. There has been so many highlights to our week – from being given top tips from the pastry chefs of Galvin’s at Windows to cooking lobsters in Harrods’ fine dining restaurant.

“We’ve tasted food from top London chefs, and even had a chance meeting with Michel Roux. I don’t think any of us could have comprehended how much knowledge and experience we all have gained from this work experience week.”

Craft Guild vice chairman Christopher Basten, who headed the judging panel of the competition and acted as the team’s mentor for their work experience week added: “The experience these students have gained will stay with them for the rest of their professional careers.

“I can offer only praise for Brakes’ competition, as it is such a fantastic way for young talent to not only gain the experience of working in a time pressured professional kitchen, but to have exposure to some of the UK’s most talented chefs – and demonstrate firsthand their skills and capacities.”

The students also benefited from attending the Taste of London festival in Regents Park and being taken behind the scenes at the Billingsgate Fish Market. These activities were designed to provide a fully rounded experience of what it’s like to be a top chef, from the importance of sourcing the finest fresh ingredients to experimenting and pushing the boundaries with new cuisines and flavour combinations.

Brakes’ marketing director James Armitage added: “Brakes is passionate about finding and supporting young talent within the foodservice industry through our Student Chef Team Challenge. It is always a popular competition for students, thanks to the hands-on experience the prize offers, and we look forward to welcoming next year’s entrants.”

The 2012/13 Brakes Student Chef Team Challenge will be launching later in the year.