Nic Makes Final of Illustrious Combiguru Challenge

Level 2 Hospitality and Catering learner Nic Tachenny will represent Stoke on Trent College at the final of the illustrious Combiguru Challenge in Venice, Italy on Friday 4 April 2025.

Nic, was ranked among the top 40 competitors from FE colleges right across the United Kingdom, and will now be jetting off to Venice to compete in the Oven Challenge.

To win a place in the Oven Challenge, Nic completed an app challenge set by organisers Unox, who visited the college’s Hospitality and Catering Level 2 learners in February.

The Oven challenge gives each competitor 3 hours to prepare a main course and dessert.

All contestants will also be given the opportunity to explore the stunning city of Venice, immersing themselves in the Italian culture as well as having an unforgettable dining experience.

The first place winner of the Combiguru Challenge will win their college a 5-tray CHEFTOP MIND.Maps PLUS commercial oven with second and third place winning a professional knife with the competition logo offered by partner company Maglionero.

Nic Tachenny said;

“This Hospitality and Catering course has helped me a lot to gain new skills, and I’ve learned a lot about the hospitality and catering sector.

“I really want to win this competition, as well as experiencing the different culture and try their foods too. I am a bit nervous but really fired up.”

Hassan Rizvi, Principal & CEO at Stoke on Trent College said:

“We would like to congratulate Nic on making the finals of the Combiguru Challenge. This is a fantastic opportunity for him to showcase his skills to industry leaders in the hospitality and catering industry.

“We’re extremely proud that he will be representing Stoke on Trent College.”

Find out more about the Combiguru Challenge.

Find out more about Hospitality and Catering courses at Stoke on Trent College.