Andrew Fairlie Scholarship 2026
Application
Positioned as the ultimate educational scholarship that any aspiring chef in Scotland could receive, the Andrew Fairlie Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for any chef looking to grow their knowledge and gain experience within world renowned establishments.
Supported by HIT Scotland, The Gleneagles Hotel, Restaurant Andrew Fairlie and Perth College UHI, the Andrew Fairlie Scholarship is now in its 7th year. The scholarship launched in 2019, with the late Andrew Fairlie spearheading the initiative in partnership with HIT Scotland – an industry charity he was closely associated with. Thank you to the Scottish Government for their support which allowed us to create this scholarship.
Applications for 2026 are now open! Read on to find out how to apply. The judges will be looking for a chef with similar values, both personally and professionally, that Andrew had, and his restaurant continues to display, so the right attitude is key, along with professionalism and integrity.
The prizes
The winning chef will receive a variety of once-in-a-lifetime educational experiences over a couple of years, enabling them to continue to develop their skills and experience, and grow in their career.
a stage at Restaurant Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles (2 Michelin star)
a stage at Restaurant Sat Bains in Nottingham (2 Michelin star)
a stage at Core by Clare Smyth in London (3 Michelin star)
2 day educational trip to France from Grande Cuisine
a bespoke chef’s jacket from Goodfellows
Opportunities may vary year to year but will always be inspirational in nature.
Some prizes may require to be changed, changes are at the discretion of HIT Scotland
Judging process
The judging process will involve some of the most talented Chefs in the UK, with an array of Michelin Stars between them.
Initially, there will be a paper judgement. You will show us your knowledge and creativity by creating a seasonal 2 course menu for 4. We also want to learn a bit more about you as a chef. From this, up to 6 chefs will be chosen to take part in the Grand Final.
The Grand Final will be a skills test where you will show your knowledge, ability and your personal values. The culinary challenges for the Final will be confirmed nearer the time. This will take place at Perth College UHI on Wednesday 25th November 2026.
The Andrew Fairlie Scholarship judging panel will decide who will win based on the skills test, the quality of their application, and the passion that they have shown for the industry. This will be one chef, and this will be announced at the end of the Grand Final day, at The Gleneagles Hotel.
2026 Judges
Gary Maclean
Stephen McLaughlin
Sat Bains
The recipe
We want you to create a seasonal 2 course menu to serve for 4 people in November.
First course - A classic Chou Farci with Scottish game as its main ingredient. Create a braised lentil garnish that is flavoured with smoked bacon and vinegar along with a sauce or jus to accompany and complement your cabbage and lentils.
Second course - A desert that mainly features homemade brioche and apples. Use as many vanilla pods as you wish and choose one alcohol to flavour your desert.
Focus on both your dishes being delicious and your menu having great balance. We want to see your skill and craft as a chef as well as a feel for your personality and passion as a person.
Please make sure your recipes are written clearly and concisely. They should show all ingredients, measurements and methods used.
How to apply
This is open to any chef over the age of 21, working in Scotland, at any level, although a competent level of chef skills, knowledge and understanding will be expected for the Final skills test, so experience in a professional kitchen is required. To enter you must complete the application form and return it by the closing date of midnight on Sunday 13th September 2026.
Please read the scholarship guidance document before you apply.
Please download and type your answers directly onto the application form, save it and return. It is a Word document.
We require you to send the following by email to andrewfairliescholarship@hitscotland.co.uk
a completed application form, with contact details, answers to the questions, plus your recipe
question - What makes your Chou Farci unique and special to you?
question - What is the one tool in your knife box that you cannot do without and why?
an up-to-date CV that shows current and previous jobs (company and job title) with the dates you worked there
photo - a current photo of you in chef uniform, from the waist up (as explained in the guidance) that can be used publicly if you make the Final
Any questions please also email andrewfairliescholarship@hitscotland.co.uk
