A delicious wave of creativity swept through Alcester Town Hall as local secondary school students took centre stage in the Countryside Classroom Schools Bake‑Off, part of this year’s Alcester Food Festival. The eagerly anticipated tray‑bake competition, open to pupils from local midlands schools never failed to impress the judges—or the community.

The contest tasked students with crafting original tray‑bakes, judged on taste, presentation, and creativity. Among the standout creations was a colourful spread from Alcester Academy, including a jaw‑dropping jaffa orange tray bake that ultimately took top honours. 

Securing first place in the competition was Connor Ryan, an Alcester Academy student, whose inventive jaffa‑orange tray bake earned him individual acclaim—and delivered a win for his school. Sponsored by Countryside Classroom, Connor’s award included school recognition and a well‑deserved prize package.

Elizabeth Lake, Programme Coordinator at Countryside Classroom said ... "I would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the Ragley Estate and Wildfarmed for generously providing sustainably grown ingredients for the Schools Bake-Off. Their commitment to regenerative agriculture and local sourcing not only elevated the quality of the students’ creations, but also reinforced the competition’s core message: that great food starts with responsible farming and a deep respect for the land."

With over 10,000 visitors enjoying more than 100 stalls—including students’ homemade bakes—the Bake‑Off stood out as a dynamic intersection of youth talent and community celebration.