Chefs with flair invited to follow in Fairlie’s footsteps

Sponsored jointly by Hospitality Industry Trust (HIT) Scotland, the Scottish Government and Gleneagles, it is awarded to a male or female chef to reflect Andrew Fairlie’s unwavering commitment to diversity in the kitchen.

The scholarship will recognise two outstanding individuals working as chefs in Scotland, who are looking to progress in their careers.

If you are currently on furlough or have been made redundant due to Covid-19, you can still apply.

The recipients will gain industry-wide recognition as Andrew Fairlie Scholars and experience once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to continue their culinary education, such as a practical stage in an international kitchen and at two Michelin starred Restaurant Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles.

David Cochrane, chief executive of HIT Scotland, said: “It is very exciting to again be launching the search for those chefs who represent the values of Andrew Fairlie.

“We’re looking for people who demonstrate his work ethic, integrity and passion for excellence and who will continue to represent these qualities in Andrew’s name as they forge their careers.”

Scholarships were awarded last year to Emma-Rose Milligan (24), from Kilmarnock, demi chef de partie at Chez Roux at Inverlochy Castle in Fort William, and Joseph Harte (24), a junior sous chef at Douneside House in Aboyne.

Judges include chefs Tom Kerridge and Sat Bains, 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.

Stephen said: “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.

“The Andrew Fairlie Scholarship is a must enter experience for chefs who truly want to learn, develop and flourish in an industry that allows passionate, committed people to be as good as they want to be.”

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “This is a fantastic opportunity in memory of one of Scotland’s most inspirational chefs. 

“The hospitality industry has been severely impacted by the 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.”

Candidates must complete an online application stating why they feel they should win the scholarship and what they think it takes to run a successful kitchen.

Finalists will take part in a skills test, with the winners having to show a mix of personality and professionalism to be named an Andrew Fairlie Scholar. Eligible applicants can find out more at hitscotland.co.uk/scholarships.