Scholarship open for budding chefs
The Andrew Fairlie Scholarship is again seeking applications from aspiring chefs.
After a successful first year in 2019, Hospitality Industry Trust (HIT) Scotland will press on with the scholarship which honours Perthshire chef Andrew Fairley who died in January 2019.
Sponsored jointly by HIT Scotland, the Scottish Government and Gleneagles, the Andrew Fairlie Scholarship is awarded annually to a male and female chef to reflect Andrew’s unwavering commitment to diversity in the kitchen.
The Andrew Fairlie Scholarship will recognise two outstanding individuals who are looking to progress in their careers and are working as chefs in Scotland.
Young chefs on furlough or who have been made redundant because of COVID-19 can still apply.
The recipients will gain industry-wide recognition as Andrew Fairlie Scholars and experience opportunities to continue their culinary education, such as a practical stage in an international kitchen and at two Michelin star Restaurant Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles.
The judges remain the same as last year, with two Michelin starred chefs Tom Kerridge and Sat Bains, Masterchef winner and National Chef of Scotland Gary McLean, Stephen McLaughlin, head chef at Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, Lorna McNee, head chef at Cail Bruich, and Andrew’s former mentor Keith Podmore all lending their expertise.
In support of the Andrew Fairlie Scholarship, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said:“The hospitality industry has been severely impacted by the current pandemic and it will be vital as we move towards the safe and sustained recovery of the sector that we make the most of Scotland’s wealth of talent, skills and creativity.
“This scholarship will once again provide a fantastic opportunity for two chefs to enhance not only Scotland’s reputation but their own, as they forge what will undoubtedly be successful careers.”
Stephen McLaughlin, head chef at Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, added:“I was delighted with year one of the Andrew Fairlie Scholarship and I am so excited to have the ball rolling again on year two.”
Eligible applicants can find out more information by visiting https://hitscotland.co.uk/ scholarships/