The pressure was on in the kitchen as apprentice chefs battled it out on Tuesday 9th July to represent Kangan Institute at the Victorian final of the 2013 Australian TAFE Culinary Trophy.

All students designed their own dishes from scratch around set ingredients with strict guidelines. They had to show the judges that they had skill, creativity and could keep their cool under pressure.

They were critiqued in line with industry standards by four professional chefs and were judged on their mise en place, hygiene and safety, productivity and timing, and presentation and taste.

"This is how to learn - hands on. It's great for students to learn what they did well and what they need to improve on," said judge for the day chef Darren Mallot of Peter Rowland Catering. Student representatives from each level (first, second and third year apprentices) will proceed to the state final.

Three students have claimed their places. They are Steven Capovilla (Level 3), Mina George and Brad Sutton (Level 2). Scores were tied between first year apprentices Kyanne Dunlop, Kevin Pisani and Renee Weedall. They will compete again for the final two places.

Congratulations to all students involved. The state finals will be held at Box Hill Institute on 24th September 2013. Good luck to all!