Lincoln College Catering Students Create Exclusive Collaborative Menu with The Grain Store

Lincoln College Level 3 Catering students gained valuable industry experience through a unique collaboration with The Grain Store at Doddington Hall, working alongside professional chefs to create a fine dining menu celebrating the best of Lincolnshire produce.

Hosted in the College's Sessions Restaurant chef suite, students worked with The Grain Store's Head Chef and Restaurant Manager to develop and deliver a one-of-a-kind dining experience. The project provided first-hand insight into sustainability, seasonality, and the importance of sourcing local ingredients in modern culinary practice.

Ezri, a Level 3 Catering Student at Lincoln College, said: “It's a good experience working with the Doddington Hall Chefs and getting to know what it’s like in the industry, we’ve been able to ask a lot of questions which is great.”

Drawing on produce grown and reared across the Doddington Estate, students explored the journey from field to plate and learned about sustainable food production. They were also introduced to the Wilder Doddington project, where rare-breed, pasture-fed Lincoln Red cattle help support biodiversity and carbon sequestration. The estate's award-winning, 28-day-aged beef featured prominently within the menu.

Working alongside the talented Grain Store team, students developed their skills in menu planning, preparation and professional kitchen operations, while also gaining valuable opportunities to ask questions and learn directly from chefs with extensive experience in seasonal and à la carte dining.

The menu showcased exceptional local ingredients, featuring Doddington Gin-cured chalk stream trout, barbecued Doddington Herd Lincoln Red ribeye, and a local strawberry parfait with elderflower sabayon and woodruff syrup.

The collaboration offered students a valuable insight into the future of professional cookery, helping them develop both technical skills and a deeper understanding of sustainable food production. By working closely with one of Lincolnshire's leading hospitality venues, students experienced the high standards, creativity and innovation required within today's culinary industry.

This partnership reflects Lincoln College's commitment to providing students with meaningful industry engagement opportunities that prepare them for successful careers in hospitality and catering, while strengthening connections with some of the region's most respected food and heritage destinations.

Cook up your future career at Lincoln College. Apply now to study Catering & Hospitality in September 2026.