The Andrew Fairlie Scholarship provides an ‘unrivalled educational experience’, offering first-hand experience in some of the world's most renowned culinary establishments to nurture the next generation of cheffing talent. It is a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ opportunity for chefs looking to develop in their careers.

Launched in 2019, the scholarship was created by Andrew Fairlie in partnership with HIT Scotland, with which the late chef was closely associated, to provide premium educational opportunities for up-and-coming chefs in Scotland. 

Lead judge Stephen McLaughlin, head chef at Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, will be joined by Sat Bains, chef patron at Restaurant Sat Bains and Gary Maclean, the winner of MasterChef The Professionals and National Chef of Scotland.

McLaughlin commented: “The Andrew Fairlie Scholarship is an incredible opportunity for chefs in Scotland looking to advance in their careers, offering real-life experiences in some of the finest restaurants in the world with guidance from leading industry figures. This is an opportunity that many chefs can only dream of.

“With the applications for 2025 now open, this is the chance to showcase talent and passion. Only the best applicants will be selected for the grand final, so pull from all your resources to make sure that your application is as strong as it can be. Good luck chefs.”

The winner of the 2025 Andrew Fairlie Scholarship will be taken on a 2-day educational trip to France with Grande Cuisine, gain hands-on experience at the 3-star Core by Clare Smyth in London, and undertake a stage at the 2-star Restaurant Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles. The winner will also receive a bespoke chef’s jacket from Goodfellows as a keepsake of the experience. 

Darren Seggie, the winner of the 2023 Andrew Fairlie Scholarship, added: "Taking part in and winning the Andrew Fairlie Scholarship has been transformative to my career. The chance to create connections with and learn from some of the industry's best is truly unique and rare. Any one of the prizes offered would be special, but to have multiple experiences of such a high calibre makes it the best opportunity out there for chefs in Scotland."

Candidates must complete an application form, which can be found on the HIT Scotland website here.