Two students from Finchley are preparing to cook up a storm for their chance to be able to work at one of television chef Jamie Oliver’s restaurants.

Oliver Gold and Anthony Sparks came first and second in the Rotary International in Great Britain & Ireland (RIBI) Young Chef North West London area final, and will go on to represent their schools in the London final.

The competition saw Oliver and Anthony battle it out against eight heat winners from five schools around Barnet and Harrow with a budget of only £10 for a two course meal and a limited time to prepare it.

Christ College pupil Oliver came first after impressing judges with his dishes of roasted white fish wrapped in smoked bacon with asparagus, roasted potatoes and a lemon mayonnaise, and strawberry and kiwi tartlets. 

He said: “It was such a good experience as I have never cooked in a professional kitchen before.  It was hard work but I am really happy with the outcome and I am looking forward to the next round of the competition.”

The runner up was Anthony Sparks, from Compton School in Finchley, who prepared a main course of poached paupiette of plaice and a lychee and lime sorbet for dessert. 

The Finchley duo will go on to represent their schools at the final on February 9 when they’ll compete for the ultimate prize of being able to work in Jamie Oliver’s restaurant Fifteen for two weeks.