Katie’s success comes after an action-packed Grand Finals Week, which took place from 11–15 May and saw the UK’s top hospitality students put through their paces across a series of real-world, sustainability-focused challenges.

Katie’s exceptional performance saw her shine among six FOH finalists, impressing a panel of industry-leading judges including Michelin-starred chef Adam Handling MBE, FOH Director George Hersey, and hospitality professionals from across the country.

Now in its 37th year, the Toque d’Or competition aims to showcase and support the next generation of hospitality talent. Katie’s win also brings a £1,000 prize fund for Hugh Baird College, part of a wider £21,200 grant awarded by the Savoy Educational Trust to support colleges involved in the National Heats and Grand Finals.

Reflecting on her win, Katie said:

“It means everything to me, not just winning, but having the chance to improve my skills and discover what I’m truly capable of. It’s been an incredible experience.”

Throughout the week, Katie and her fellow FOH finalists took on a wide range of challenges, including pairing wines at Wyken Vineyards, designing a sustainable grab-and-go service for NHS staff at St Bartholomew’s Hospital, and exploring modern mixology at The Alchemist in London. They also learned from top industry mentors and gained invaluable experience working in high-pressure, real-world hospitality settings.

The week culminated in the ‘Fine Dining Challenge’ at CORD by Le Cordon Bleu, where Katie and the finalists served a three-course sustainable menu paired with English wines to an esteemed panel of judges. Her poise, professionalism and deep understanding of the hospitality industry helped secure her title as the nation’s top front-of-house student.

Katie now looks ahead to a once-in-a-lifetime culinary trip to Italy alongside back-of-house champion Thomas Brassington from Loughborough College. The duo will immerse themselves in Italy’s renowned food culture, exploring local cuisine, regional ingredients, and traditional cooking techniques.

“Katie has been an outstanding ambassador for Hugh Baird College. Her achievement and the hard work, dedication and passion she has demonstrated throughout the competition has been incredible. Her success is a testament not only to her individual talent, but also to the strength and quality of the college’s hospitality training.” commented Ste Otty, Curriculum Manager for Catering at Hugh Baird College.

Ste went on to say:

“Her professionalism, commitment and drive exemplify everything we aim to instil in our students. We couldn’t be more proud.”

For more information about hospitality courses at Hugh Baird College, visit https://www.hughbaird.ac.uk/subject-area/hospitality-catering-l20.