The educational trip included a visit to the chocolate research farm ‘Granja Luker,’ where students Caitlan Holland, Dean Burnham and Callum Wood got to plant their own cocoa trees.

They also met farmers and listened to presentations about different types of cocoa pods that owner Casa Luker grows there, before visiting the Granja Luker factory in Bogota.

From there, they explored local restaurants as well as a street food tour, trip to the market, and a number of historial and cultural sights, including a cable car up Monserrate for views over the capital.

North Warwickshire and Hinckley College lecturer and team mentor, Jason Thacker, commented: "It was an amazing trip and we had a once in a lifetime experience".

David McKown, UK Young Restaurant Team of the Year director, added: "The 2018 competition was fantastic, and we are delighted to announce that a study trip to Portugal will await the 2019 winner".

For more information or to apply for UK Young Restaurant Team of the Year 2019, visit: www.restaurantcompetition.co.uk.