Rickmansworth teen 'honoured' to be scholarship finalist (From Watford Observer)

Rickmansworth teen Anish Patel 'honoured' to be Le Grande Diplôme scholarship finalist

2:45pm Thursday 7th March 2013 in News By Ben Endley, Senior reporter

A Rickmansworth teenager is vying for a £30,000 scholarship to one of the world’s most prestigious culinary colleges.

Anish Patel, 17, of Valley Road, is among the final 16 17 to 20-year-olds hoping to win a place on the renowned Le Grande Diplôme course run by Le Cordon Bleu in London.

The scholarship award includes accommodation fees and an apprenticeship with acclaimed chef Pierre Koffmann at his Knightsbridge restaurant.

Anish, who attends St Clement Danes School in Chorleywood, is thrilled to have got this far after submitting a video to convince judges he was the man for the job.

He said: "I was overwhelmed when I received the call to find out I had been selected for the semi-finals. Being one step closer to studying at a world class institution is really exciting for me as I have a keen interest in French cuisine and patisserie.

"I feel very honoured to have been selected for the next round and am looking forward to expressing myself in the coming interview to show my passion and desire to learn more in French cuisine and patisserie."

Anish’s inspiration is Atul Kochhar, the first Indian chef to win a Michelin star, and he dreams of one day owning his own patisserie.

Larry Montack, head of Le Cordon Bleu London, said: "We are not looking for anyone with previous culinary experience - we are looking for a passionate individual who may not otherwise have the opportunity to study at Le Cordon Bleu."

The final takes place in London on March 27.