The UK’s largest chef organisation, the Craft Guild of Chefs is for the second year running it’s Young Chef Scholarship, an initiative created by the Guild’s vice presidents to 'inspire' and support the next generation of culinary professionals. 

The scholarship provides up to £5,000 in funding for one exceptional young chef to pursue education, training, and international work experience that enhances their professional development. 

To apply for the Craft Guild of Chefs Young Chef Scholarship, the below must be submitted online: www.craftguildofchefs.org/vice-presidents-young-chefs-scholarship.

Steve Munkley, vice president of the Craft Guild of Chefs, commented: “We are excited to open entries for the Craft Guild of Chefs 2026 Young Chef Scholarship. The calibre of applications last year was incredible, and Francisco Brewer has shown just what’s possible when passion meets opportunity. This scholarship is about investing in the future of our industry, and we encourage young chefs to be bold and apply." 

The Young Chef Scholarship awards funding of up to £5,000 to support educational and training experiences, including:

• College or university-based programmes and certifications
• UK or international work experience and internships
• Independent, specialised culinary courses
• Specialist culinary equipment

Brewer added: “Being selected as the 2025 scholar is such an incredible honour. Travelling to Mexico to train at restaurants like Baldío and Alfonsina is something I never thought I’d get the chance to do. 

"As someone who’s half-Ecuadorian, I’m really looking forward to connecting with my Latin American roots, seeing how cooks there work with the land, waste nothing, and give back to their communities through food. What’s amazing is that their approach isn’t new at all, it’s been part of their culture for generations. It’s something we can all learn from, and it really feels like the direction we should be heading in."

Eligible applicants must:

• Be aged 18–25 on or before 31st December 2025
• Hold a valid UK passport
• Be currently employed by a recognised catering establishment in the UK

Applications must include:

• A full CV
• A statement of intent outlining how the scholarship will be used and the expected outcomes
• A brief budget breakdown
• A professional reference from a senior chef