Grimsby Institute Student Impresses in Venice Culinary Competition

Level 2 Diploma in Professional Cookery student, Tia Welsh, of the Grimsby Institute, placed fourth in an illustrious culinary competition in Venice, Italy.

The Combi Guru Challenge, hosted by Unox, is a world-renowned competition with over 220 registered colleges taking part.

Having ranked the highest in Combi Guru’s 21-day app challenge, Tia found herself among the top 40 competitors from further education colleges across the United Kingdom and was invited on an all-expenses trip to Venice. The competition took place at Unox headquarters.

There, she was given three hours to prepare a main course and dessert in the Oven Challenge. Tia impressed the judges with her signature rack of lamb, placing fourth on the day and coming in just 1.5 points behind her third-place competitor.

Chef Zack Feve, Hospitality Programme Leader, said:

“Having worked with Unox previously, it was great to be back with one of our talented students. Unox are a leading brand of intelligent and speed ovens, which holds the future of the industry. Tia did extremely well in the competition and enjoyed a sunny day in Venice as a reward. Tia’s dishes were well executed, and she gained a huge amount of knowledge and experience from the trip.”

Tia Welsh shared her enthusiasm:

“The opportunity I was given to go to Italy was a once in a lifetime experience, which I am very grateful to the Grimsby Institute for! Arriving at Unox’s headquarters, I was met with some great people, who shared their expert knowledge and understanding of the hospitality industry. I experienced a new Italian culture: the cuisines, style, and history of the city was such an eye-opening experience.”

Tia also had the opportunity to explore Venice, including taking part in an exclusive speed boat trip, a tour of St Mark’s Square, and a lunch at the famous La Prosciutteria.