HIT Scotland are proud to announce five finalists for the fourth annual Andrew Fairlie Scholarship. The event will take place on Wednesday 22nd November 2023.

Five talented chefs have been shortlisted to compete in a skills test for the chance to become an Andrew Fairlie scholar and take part in once-in-a-lifetime culinary educational experiences.

The Andrew Fairlie Scholarship is an invaluable opportunity for chefs seeking first-hand experience within some of the world's most renowned establishments. It offers the ultimate education for up-and-coming chefs.

Launched in 2019, the late Andrew Fairlie was a key figure behind the scholarship initiative. The scholarship is offered in partnership with HIT Scotland, an industry charity with which Andrew was closely connected. Now in its fourth year, the Andrew Fairlie Scholarship is supported by HIT Scotland, Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, Perth College UHI and The Gleneagles Hotel.

The five skilled chefs competing for this ‘ultimate scholarship’ are:

• Daniel Robb, 27, Chef de Partie at Gleneagles 

• Rachel Bremner, 34, Commis Pastry Chef at the Balmoral

• Darren Seggie, 35, Lecturer of Culinary Arts at City of Glasgow College

• Spud Henderson, 34, Sous Chef at Craig Millar @ 16 West End

• Rita Varga, 31, Chef de Partie and kitchen departmental trainer at Voco Grand Central Hotel.

Competition details

On Wednesday 22 November, Perth College UHI will host the skills test and judging portion of the day, with the winner’s announcement being made at Gleneagles. This year, the finalists have been challenged to create a dish with potato as its star ingredient, as well as incorporating Scottish dairy.

An all-star panel of the country’s finest chefs will judge the 2023 competition. Stephen McLaughlin, Head Chef at Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, will be joined by fellow 2 Michelin starred Chef Sat Bains, 1 Michelin star Head Chef at Cail Bruich and winner of Great British Menu, Lorna McNee, and Masterchef winner and National Chef of Scotland, Gary Maclean.

The winner of this year’s Scholarship will be taken on an incredible 2-day educational trip to France with Grand Cuisine, and gain hands-on experience at the 2-Michelin star Restaurant Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles, the 3-star Core by Clare Smyth in London, an international stage, as well as receiving a bespoke chef’s jacket. These highly informative experiences will be taken over two years, allowing the scholar to develop their learnings over a period of time.

David Cochrane, Chief Executive of HIT Scotland, said: 

“This is a unique opportunity for chefs  in Scotland to not only hone their culinary skills but to also carry forward the remarkable  legacy of Andrew Fairlie. It is a gateway to a world of fantastic industry opportunities that can enhance their careers and personal development. 

“We remain committed to showcasing the exceptional talent in Scotland while continuing to champion Andrew’s incredible legacy. Best of luck to all of our finalists!”

Stephen McLaughlin, Restaurant Andrew Fairlie Head Chef and lead judge, said: 

“Our five finalists have earned their rightful place in this year’s Andrew Fairlie Scholarship final. I can feel how they have all been inspired by the brief - they have challenged both themselves and the humble potato to be as good as they can be.

“I often talk about simple things that are brilliantly done and they have all shown their understanding of this in their well thought out recipes. I now look forward to seeing the chefs recreating these dishes on finals day”.