Six Chefs: Fundraising dinner provides outstanding learning experience for hospitality students

4th November 2026 – Tags: Debut Restaurant, Hospitality

Hospitality students from City College Norwich worked alongside six of Norfolk’s most respected chefs for a special fundraising dinner in aid of The Matthew Project and hosted in the college’s Debut Restaurant.

The Matthew Project's inaugural Six Chefs event on 3rd November was a resounding success, bringing together Norfolk's hospitality community, local businesses, supporters, students and volunteers for a memorable evening that celebrated exceptional food while raising vital funds for the charity’s work across Norfolk.

Working across three kitchen spaces, our students gained invaluable hands-on experience, supporting the chefs with food preparation, service and kitchen operations.

Alongside college staff, they also helped set up the venue and ensure every guest enjoyed a seamless experience from start to finish.

The event provided a unique opportunity for students to learn from some of the county's leading culinary professionals while contributing to a fundraising event that will make a real difference to people's lives.

Guests were treated to an exceptional dining experience created by Liam Nichols from The Northwic, John Walker from The Harper, Lee Tyler from Restaurant 1812, Jimmy Preston from XO Kitchen and Soi Mama, Jack Gosling from The King's Head, Bawburgh, Hazel Yuill, formerly of Stoke Mill.

Together, they crafted an unforgettable menu that celebrated the very best of Norfolk's food scene while supporting an important cause.

The atmosphere throughout the evening was warm, vibrant and full of energy. Guests enjoyed live music from DJ Gabriella, while Mark Ahier expertly guided the evening as compère and auctioneer.

Carrie-Ann Higgs, Tutor Assessor, Apprenticeships Hospitality at City College Norwich and The Burnt Chef Project Ambassador, said:

It has been a privilege for us to partner with The Matthew Project on this fantastic event. The collaboration provided an invaluable opportunity for our students to work alongside some of Norfolk's most respected chefs in a live event environment, developing their skills, confidence and experience.

 

The students were incredibly proud to be involved and embraced every aspect of the evening with professionalism and enthusiasm. We are passionate about creating opportunities that connect learning with real industry experiences, and Six Chefs was a brilliant example of that.”