Kepak Brings Real‑World Food Innovation to Highfield Leadership Academy Through Tasty Careers Schools Challenge

More than 100 Year 8 students at Highfield Leadership Academy in Blackpool spent 8 July immersed in a full day of creativity, teamwork and industry insight, thanks to a Tasty Careers Schools Challenge sponsored by one of The National Skills Academy's Employer Services Network member's, Kepak, the food company behind the well‑known Rustlers brand.

Across seven classes, students stepped into the shoes of real food industry professionals, working in teams to design a brand‑new healthy burger concept. Guided by Kepak experts in new product development, marketing, and finance, pupils explored ingredients, branding, sustainability, commercial viability and consumer appeal.

The challenge sparked exceptional creativity, with ideas ranging from the “Saturn Burger” with its onion‑ring “orbit” to a vegan “Yummy Burger” served in mushroom‑based eco‑packaging. Teachers reported high engagement throughout the day, with students particularly energised once they realised Kepak is the company behind Rustlers... a brand many recognised!

To showcase the impact of the day and highlight the value of employer involvement, NSAFD has produced a detailed case study capturing the challenge format, student outcomes and Kepak’s reflections.

You can download the case study here:

Sponsor a Future Schools Challenge

We’re now inviting food and drink businesses to sponsor future Tasty Careers Schools Challenges across the UK. Sponsorship offers a high‑impact, low‑barrier way to:

• Engage directly with young people
• Showcase your brand and values
• Inspire future apprentices and employees
• Support local communities
• Strengthen the sector’s talent pipeline

If your organisation would like to get involved, contact the NSAFD team at [email protected].