Rising Star Theo Haxby Nominated for Young Chef of the Year

Seventeen-year-old Theo Haxby, a first-year apprentice chef at Lincoln College, is excelling in the culinary world with his nomination for the 2025 Lincolnshire Life Magazine Taste of Excellence Food, Drink & Hospitality Awards in the Young Chef of the Year category. 

Based full-time at the Grain Store Café, Restaurant & Bar at Doddington Hall, Theo has impressed his employer with his maturity, creativity, and passion for seasonal, estate-grown produce.  

Starting as a weekend kitchen porter at sixteen alongside his GCSEs, Theo’s drive and talent quickly earned him an apprenticeship role. 

Conrad Adams, Executive Head Chef at Doddington Hall, said: “We’ve put Theo Haxby forward for Young Chef of the Year because he is, quite simply, an exceptional and creative young talent. His understanding of food is far beyond his years, and he brings out excellent flavour from even the most humble ingredients. Theo lives and breathes his craft, and his desire to bring joy through food is what truly sets him apart.” 

Sean Knight, Assistant Principal of Apprenticeships at Lincoln College, said: "Theo is a fantastic example of what can be achieved through an apprenticeship. Learning on the job allows students like Theo to build confidence, master real skills, and make meaningful contributions from day one. His progress is a credit to both his determination and the strong partnership between our college and Doddington Hall." 

Now preparing for a live cook-off this October, Theo is hoping to make it into the top eight by public vote. If successful, and if he places in the top three, he’ll be invited to attend the awards ceremony in November. 

As part of his apprenticeship, Theo has already developed his own menus and contributed to streamlining kitchen production - gaining real-world experience in a fast-paced, professional kitchen. 

Theo Haxby, Apprentice Chef, said: “With college, it fits in quite well in my work as I’m learning on the job. I get given periods of time to do my theory work. There’s a lot of prep, which means there’s a lot of chances for me to learn and a lot of room for improvement.  

“On the past two à la carte menus, I’ve had my own dishes I’ve put on – developing them from scratch and putting them forward. It feels very good that I can do that in my position here at Doddington. 

“It’s been very nice to experience that much trust from older, more experienced chefs. The chefs gave me opportunities to express myself, get more creative, and start to learn a lot more.” 

With aspirations to attend the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu cookery school in London and explore international cuisines, Theo’s culinary journey is just beginning. 

Voting is now open - cast your vote online for free to help Theo become Young Chef of the Year! 

Apply now to study Catering & Hospitality at Lincoln College this September or apply for an apprenticeship with us - view our latest Apprenticeship Vacancies here.