Achievers of this prestigious exam will be seeded directly into the semi-finals of YNCOTY in 2025 and for one chef, straight to the national final. Whilst this incredible competition opportunity does entice chefs to get involved, the Graduate Awards bring many other opportunities for young chefs.

The Guild hears stories about how it has helped candidates to gain promotions or new job roles as well as grow in confidence professionally and personally. This is down to the mentoring and support which young chefs receive. Charlotte Vicars and Beth Disley-jones spoke to the Craft Guild of Chefs about how the Graduate Awards helped them in their careers.

All Graduate Awards finalists will be taken on a two-day foodie experience in July where they will meet local suppliers, learn more about the tasks for the final with demonstrations from experts and have time to socialise with like-minded chefs.

Chefs who have previously achieved the award also describe the connections they make during the process. It allows young chefs the chance to meet others outside their workplace who have similar ambitions and are at the same age and stage of their career.

The Graduate Awards will now remain open until midnight on Friday 10th May. It only takes a few minutes for chefs to enter using a short online form and there are opportunities to get involved with either the Kitchen or Pastry Exam.

Those who make the Kitchen semi-final will have the chance to cook for former National Chef of the Year and chef patron at Launceston Place, Ben Murphy. Executive chef at Pennyhill Park Hotel & Spa, Sarah Frankland will be heading up the Pastry Award for the first time.

Steve Munkley, founder of the Graduate Awards and vice-president of the Craft Guild of Chefs, said: “We know from speaking to previous Graduate Awards achievers that the link with Young National Chef of the Year is a huge draw. However, the skills chefs will learn and develop in this exam will help them not only in future competitions but in their day jobs and future careers too.

“If you take a look at the Graduate Awards stories we have been sharing on our website and social media channels, it highlights that this event really is a fabulous stepping stone for any young chef wanting to excel in their career.”

Chefs can enter online today here.

The Graduate Awards wouldn’t be possible without its impressive list of sponsors who are all keen to help the Guild to develop young culinary talent. This includes The London Meat Co, Oranka, Savoy Educational Trust, Reynolds, Meiko UK, Essential Cuisine, City and Guilds, Robert Welch, Villeroy & Boch, Continental Chef Supplies (CCS), James Knight of Mayfair, Worshipful Company of Cooks, CCE London Ltd, University of West London, Lakeland Dairies, Grande Cuisine, The Caterer, Maldon Salt, NOWAH, Wild Farmed, and Daregal Gourmet.