Applications are now open for the Andrew Fairlie Scholarship with aspiring chefs across Scotland in with the chance of winning 'life-changing' educational opportunities.
Launched in 2019, with the late Andrew Fairlie fronting the initiative, the scholarship is provided in partnership with industry charity HIT Scotland and supported by Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, Perth College UHI and The Gleneagles Hotel.
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The winner of this year’s scholarship will be taken on a two-day educational trip to France with Grand Cuisine and receive a bespoke chef’s jacket.
They will also gain hands-on experience at the two-star Restaurant Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles, the three-star Core by Clare Smyth in London, and the two-star Mélisse in Los Angeles over a two-year period.
Head chef at Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, Stephen McLaughlin, said: “I am very much looking forward to seeing what Scotland’s aspiring chefs will create and serve up to us this year.
“The judges will be looking to see a clear demonstration of the applicant’s skills and knowledge but also want to see and feel their creativity, flair, and personality."
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Stephen will be just one of the chefs judging this year’s final competition alongside the likes of Masterchef winner Gary MacLean and Cail Bruich head chef, Lorna McNee.
Candidates will be asked to display their innovation and expertise by creating a potato dish to serve to the judges with further culinary challenges revealed on the day.
He continued: “At the end of the day, we are not necessarily looking for a Michelin-starred chef.
“What we are searching for is someone with a sharp eye for details and a really clean set of skills.
"Someone who is driven to learn and improve their craft and to elevate themselves and others toward a higher level.”
The finalists will also take part in a skills test on Wednesday, November 22 at Perth College UHI, followed by a presentation at The Gleneagles Hotel.
David Cochrane MBE, chief executive of HIT Scotland, said: “We are delighted to once again open up applications for the Andrew Fairlie Scholarship.
“The scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for chefs that are looking to advance their career and to continue their professional development in this remarkable industry.”
Potential candidates are asked to complete an application which can be found on the HIT Scotland website here.
Applications close at midnight on Sunday, September 24.
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