They used to be associated with turkey twizzlers and cold pizza.

But school dinners have taken giant strides in recent years, with dishes these days looking more like they’ve been created by Raymond Blanc than Ronald McDonald.

And at the forefront of the revolution are two chefs from the Black Country who were today taking part in a regional cook-off as part of a national competition.

Kurtis Francis, from St Hubert’s Catholic Primary School in Oldbury, and Donna Westwood from Withymoor Primary School in Brierley Hill, were among six chefs today vying for the crown of West Midlands School Chef of the Year.

“It’s amazing to be taking part,” said 26-year-old Mr Francis, who has worked at the primary school for two years.

His dish was the Ultimate Fish Finger – which consists of a crab stick surrounded by Pollock fillet, coated with crumbs and served with pea puree and potatoes – with a sticky citrus sponge for dessert.

“I feel a bit of pressure but I’m very excited,” he added.

“This competition is brilliant because it showcases what school meals are all about.

“There is some real talent in school kitchens and this event puts that talent in the spotlight.” Meanwhile Ms Westwood, a mother-of-two from Bower Lane in Quarry Bank, decided to cook a Quorn and butternut squash vegetarian curry – followed by her Strawberry and Mango Passion fruit tart.

In order to reach the regional cook-off at Stoke on Trent College today, Mr Francis and Ms Westwood each had to submit a menu consisting of a main course and dessert suitable for an 11-year-old and costing no more than £1.50 per child.

The winner of the West Midlands regional title will go on to take part in the national final in May against nine other top school chefs from across the UK.

A trophy, cash, a day’s experience and invitations to a series of high-profile catering events are on offer for the national winner.