FOOD-loving pupils at Chickerell Primary School enjoyed a visit from a top local chef.

Mat Follas, winner of MasterChef in 2009, spent time with Year 6 children talking about his career before and after his TV fame.

It came as a series of talks given to pupils following their final exams.

From his favourite hobby of foraging for wild Dorset delights to his least desired dishes, Mat encouraged children to pursue their dreams.

Mat, who is now 45 and runs his own restaurant Wild Garlic in Beaminster, said: “My own children are around the same age and they are all really interested in food.

“The pupils asked what foods were good to eat, what it was like being on the TV and some of them even said they would like to one day be chefs.”

Year 6 teacher Sarah Mortimer said: “The visit was really exciting.

“It really opens up the career options for the children.

“Mat explained how he has had many jobs before he became a full-time chef. It really shows them that you don’t have to do just one thing in life and has encouraged them to pursue their ambitions.”

Mat will soon be running the cafe at the new Chesil Beach Centre near Weymouth.

Dorset Wildlife Trust, which will be running the centre, has announced a partnership with New Zealander-turned West Dorset resident Mat, whose passion for wild Dorset ingredients saw him crowned king of the cooks.

He will continue to run his restaurant while also being in charge of the kitchen at the centre on Portland Beach Road.

Mr Follas said: “Coming to a school to talk ahead of this new venture is brilliant. We’re excited to be part of the new centre at Chesil, it’s great to interact with the local community.”

The centre, due to open on July 21, is having a £1m revamp to improve access and modernise its facilities.

George Pocock, 11, said: “I loved it when he told us all about foraging and what were the best foods. I’d love to be a chef.”

Chickerell Primary School

THE new-build school opened in 1995, and the old building was demolished to make way for houses on the other side of the playing field.

On the last Ofsted report Chickerell Primary school was deemed a ‘good’ school where pupils make good progress.

Chickerell is a popular place for builders of new houses and so the school quickly became too small and has had three extensions built to accommodate its 320 children aged between four and 11.

There are 12 classes and more than 30 staff who work at the school.

As well as academic work, Chickerell puts a strong emphasis on art, sport and external trips for pupils.

The school has close links with the community and with Budmouth, the nearest secondary school.