Chef and restaurateur Tommy Banks, will continue in his role as judge providing expert advice and mentorship for Toque d’Or entrants.

He said: “I’m delighted to be involved in Toque d’Or 2024 after such a competitive and inspiring competition this year. I really enjoyed mentoring this year’s cohort on incredibly important industry topics such as sustainability and provenance. It’s my pleasure once again to help them learn all about sustainable farming and to master the art in crafting sustainably sourced menus.”

Next year’s winners will embark on a ‘once in a lifetime’ trip to Switzerland, where they will get to delve into Nestlé’s origins and Swiss heritage as they visit the company’s headquarters and the Nestlé chocolate factory. 

Since its inception in 1989, Nestlé Professional Toque d’Or has worked with more than 150 colleges across the UK, providing opportunities and learning to more than 10,000 hospitality and culinary arts students.

Katya Simmons, managing director of Nestlé Professional UK&I, added: “The hospitality industry offers dynamic and rewarding careers; it allows you to constantly learn, grow and meet diverse people; and it’s full of opportunity to make a positive impact on customers and create memorable experiences.

“Through our prestigious Toque d’Or competition, we are perfectly positioned to help hospitality and culinary arts students bridge the gap between classroom learning and our incredible industry.”

To register and find out more about the competition’s format and timeline, college lecturers, employers and apprentices should go to: www.nestleprofessional.co.uk/toque-dor.