Taking place at The Grand Cookery School in York from 9–12th March, the Heats will bring together 48 of the UK’s most promising back-of-house (BOH) and front-of-house (FOH) college students for four days of intense challenges. 

Chef Kate Austen will lead the expert panel of BOH judges. Known for her creative flair and refined approach to contemporary European cuisine, most notably from her time in Scandinavia, Kate will inspire the 24 young chefs competing. 

Seasoned hospitality professional Andy Downton will head up the FOH judging panel, using more than two decades of Michelin-level hospitality expertise to guide and mentor the budding restaurateurs. Joining both of them on the panel will be last year’s FOH winner Katie Blundell and BOH finalist Olivia Cartlidge.

Other panelists include Nestlé Professional development chef Paul Hawkins, channel manager for branded desserts ingredients James Candy, coffee training specialist Jo Walsh and coffee trainer Emilia Flajszer, as well as Country Style Food’s senior development chef Chris Brown.

Almost 400 students from 43 colleges across the UK registered for this year’s competition, showcasing their creativity and passion for hospitality in a highly competitive entry process. The shortlisted finalists can be found here.

Lorenzo Viganò, managing director at Nestlé Professional UK&I, said: “It’s a real privilege to support the next generation of hospitality talent through Toque d’Or. The creativity and dedication of the students is remarkable – not only are they experimenting with new flavours and techniques, but they’re also celebrating cultural diversity and pushing the boundaries of innovation – all incredibly relevant themes in today’s hospitality industry. 

“Nurturing young talent is at the heart of everything we do here at Nestlé Professional. We’re committed to supporting the next generation by helping them gain the skills, confidence, and awareness they need to succeed in our vibrant and dynamic industry. I’m excited in my new role to see how their journeys unfold over the course of the competition, which promises to be another thrilling showcase of talent, creativity, and innovation.”