Chef Benson-Smith Academy

21/10/2026

🌟 What an incredible day for Sam! 🌟

Yesterday, our apprentice Commis Chef Sam competed in the final of the Delifresh Young Chef of the Year at the First Direct Arena in Leeds, selected as one of just eight finalists! 👨‍🍳

What makes this even more remarkable is that Sam has been working in a kitchen for just over a year and is only now about to start his Commis Chef assessments. To be standing alongside the best young chefs around at this stage of his career is a huge achievement.

🍽️ Homeland to Training Ground

Sam's menu told his own story, celebrating the flavours of his North East home town with Yorkshire twists.

Shields to the Shore
So**ed Mackerel | Buttermilk Tartare | Dill Oil | Samphire | Crispy Batter Scraps

Blyth to Halifax
Rolled Loin of Lamb with Kidney, Mushroom & Spinach | Pan Haggerty | Yorkshire Blue & Pickled Walnut Crumb | Lamb Jus

Nana's Griddle
Warm Stem Ginger Singin' Hinny | Honey-Roasted Plums | Cherries | Clotted Cream | Ginger Tuile

Throughout the final, Sam cooked with skill, creativity and a calm, confident approach under pressure.

His whole team and everyone at the Academy were behind him every step of the way, and we couldn't be prouder of everything he has achieved. This is just the start for Sam, and we can't wait to see where his talent takes him next.

Huge congratulations, Sam! 👏🙌

20/10/2026

🌟 Good luck, Sam! 🌟

Today our apprentice Commis Chef Sam is competing in the final of Young Delifresh of the Year at the Leeds Direct Arena! 👨‍🍳🔥

Reaching the final is a huge achievement, and we couldn't be prouder. From his very first day with us, Sam has shown a natural flair in the kitchen, and it's been brilliant to watch his skills and confidence grow ever since.

Competitions like this are a fantastic opportunity to test yourself, learn from the best and take a big step forward in your career, and Sam has earned his place among them.

Whatever happens today, Sam, you've already done us proud. Go and enjoy every minute! 🙌

15/10/2026

Where could your next step take you? Thinking about your next step but not sure where to start?

Here at The Chef Benson-Smith Training Academy, based at Dean Clough Mills in Halifax, we deliver chef, bakery, hospitality and customer service apprenticeships across the country. Each pathway combines real work experience with a recognised qualification, so you can earn a wage while you build your career.

From Commis Chef to Hospitality Manager, we'll help you find the route that suits you and support you every step of the way 👨‍🍳

Get in touch:
Call 01422 320553
Email [email protected]
Visit https://www.chefbensonsmith.co.uk

11/10/2026

As we get ready to start a new week, we're reflecting on turning our vision into reality. 👨‍🍳

Founded in 2014 by Matthew Benson-Smith, our Academy was built to empower others: aspiring chefs, future managers, craft bakers, and businesses creating positive change across the food and hospitality industry.

Back in 2018, we became a Government-approved independent training provider, and we're proud to continue delivering Hospitality and Catering apprenticeships nationwide.

From our training kitchen at Dean Clough Mills, Halifax, we're shaping the future of hospitality, one apprentice at a time.

📞 01422 320553
✉️ [email protected]
💻 www.chefbensonsmith.co.uk

09/10/2026

Life doesn't stop for training. That's why we make it work around YOU 🫵

For apprentices: work-based learning, remote platform access, and masterclasses designed to fit your schedule.
For employers: flexible delivery tailored to your operations, with minimal disruption and maximum impact.

Training that adapts to your world, not the other way around:
📞 01422 320553
✉️ [email protected]
💻 https://www.chefbensonsmith.co.uk/

05/10/2026

Great chefs don't just know how to cook; they understand where their ingredients come from.

Our latest enrichment day took apprentices behind the scenes at a key supplier site, following the entire supply chain journey: how orders are received, selected, packed and delivered.

It's all part of building a deeper understanding of the industry, beyond the kitchen.

Get in touch to discover more about our learning here at the Chef Benson-Smith Training Academy:
☎️ 01422 320553
💻 [email protected]
🖥️ https://www.chefbensonsmith.co.uk

02/10/2026

Behind every skilled apprentice is a trainer who's walked the path before them!

Our team brings real industry experience into every session, from professional kitchens to leadership roles, so apprentices learn from people who've genuinely been there.

That's the difference proper mentorship makes.

Discover more about us on our website: https://www.chefbensonsmith.co.uk

30/09/2026

With this new term well underway, are you still feeling unsure about your path? You're not alone, and it's not too late to change direction.

An apprenticeship in hospitality could be exactly the fresh start you're looking for: paid, practical, and packed with real opportunity.

Let's talk about where it could take you. Get in touch with us today:
📞 01422 320553
💻 https://www.chefbensonsmith.co.uk/
✉️ [email protected]

25/09/2026

We’re absolutely thrilled that Sam has made it through to the final of Delifresh Young Chef of the Year! 👏

His natural talent and passion for cooking have been clear from the start, and it’s been brilliant to see how much he’s grown. The whole team is so proud of you, Sam. We’re rooting for you all the way! 👨‍🍳

We can now share our wild cards with you!

Introducing Sam Kirkcaldy - Congratulations chef we will see you on the 20th October at first direct bank arena in Leeds!

23/09/2026

From scratch... that's how we teach pastry.

Our apprentices recently took part in a hands-on pastry masterclass, learning a variety of techniques and dishes from the very first steps.

No shortcuts, no pre-mixed bases, just real skill-building from the fundamentals up. This is what proper training looks like. 🥐

Get in touch to discover more about our apprenticeship programs on offer:
☎️ 01422 320553
✉️ [email protected]
💻 https://www.chefbensonsmith.co.uk