Inspiring a Future of Young Chefs: We spoke to Lexington Apprentice Chef, Kian Fearn

We recently spoke to Kian Fearn, one of our apprentice chefs who has successfully completed his final exams at Westminster College! Kian is now advancing to a commis chef position within our fine dining hospitality service. His team is incredibly proud of him and we extend a huge thanks to Margo, Rowan, and Nick at his site for their unwavering support and patience in Kian’s development.

We asked Kian to share insights about his apprenticeship journey and his promising future in hospitality.

What inspired you to pursue a career in the hospitality industry?

I have always been passionate about food, so the hospitality industry naturally appealed to me. I wanted a job that would allow me to explore and enhance my skills, such as cooking for my family, even outside of work.

What is your favourite cuisine to cook?

My favourite dish to prepare is a Chinese stir fry, which I made for my final exams. It includes beef, peppers, mushrooms, beansprouts, and noodles.

What did you enjoy most about your apprenticeship at Lexington?

The best part of my apprenticeship was the various trips we went on to places like butchers, fishmongers, and other suppliers. These experiences provided valuable insights into where our ingredients come from, which helped me appreciate them more. I gained a comprehensive understanding of the kitchen from start to finish.

How did the Lexington team support you throughout your journey?

The team was incredibly supportive, especially when it came to preparing dishes for my final exams. They guided me on ingredient choices, presentation, and many other aspects.

What did a typical day in your apprenticeship look like?

A typical day involved prepping lunch for the current day and, if time permitted, starting preparations for the next day. For example, today, I’m preparing artichokes to fry and serve as a side dish for the lunch service.

What are you doing now, and how has your apprenticeship helped you get here?

Now that I’ve completed my apprenticeship, I have secured a position as a commis chef in hospitality. This role is similar to my previous one with Lexington, working with the same team and in the same kitchen, but with added responsibilities, which I am excited about.

What advice would you give to someone considering a chef apprenticeship?

I would advise staying open-minded and embracing every opportunity that comes your way. Seek help from others and offer help whenever possible. The apprenticeship stage is brief and will pass quickly, so make the most of the experience.

Jim Wealands – Executive Head Chef and Kian’s Mentor

“Having Kian on board has been fantastic. Teaching him new skills, both in life and work, has been a rewarding experience. It’s crucial for experienced chefs to pass on their knowledge to the next generation. The industry needs young chefs to carry it forward and revitalise it.”

Interested in a Chef Apprenticeship?

Do you want to earn a steady paycheck, gain qualifications, and work alongside some of the best chefs in the industry? This is your opportunity.

We collaborate with Springboard, Westminster Kingsway College and The University of West London offer aspiring chefs the chance to earn NVQ 1 and 2 qualifications while working in a supportive, fun, and stimulating environment. Our apprenticeships are perfect for those who want to combine academic qualifications with practical, hands-on experience.