Honouring the memory of Scottish chef Andrew Fairlie, the Andrew Fairlie Scholarship is being rolled out again this year, following last year’s great success.

Andrew Farlie, one of Scotland’s most revered chefs, and one of only a handful of two-Michelin-starred chefs in the UK, passed away in January of last year. The Andrew Fairlie Scholarship was established to honour his memory and progress his legacy. Fairlie was known as a passionate and gifted chef who nurtured young talent. Sponsored by Hospitality Industry Trust (HIT) Scotland, the Scottish Government and Gleneagles, the scholarship is awarded to a young male and female chef to reflect Andrew Fairlie’s commitment to diversity in the kitchen.

The winners will gain international recognition as well as practical help in pushing their careers, with a practical stage in an international kitchen at two-Michelin-starred Restaurant Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles.

Last year’s scholarship recipients were Emma-Rose Milligan (24), from Kilmarnock, demi chef de partie at Chez Roux at Inverlochy Castle in Fort William, and Joseph Harte (24), a junior sous chef at Douneside House in Aboyne.

Judges include chefs Tom Kerridge and Sat Bains, National Chef of Scotland Gary McLean, Stephen McLaughlin, head chef at Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, Lorna McNee, head chef at Cail Bruich, and Andrew’s former mentor Keith Podmore.

David Cochrane, chief executive of HIT Scotland, said: “It is very exciting to again be launching the search for those chefs who represent the values of Andrew Fairlie. We’re looking for people who demonstrate his work ethic, integrity and passion for excellence and who will continue to represent these qualities in Andrew’s name as they forge their careers.”

The scholarship is open to any chef over the age of 21, working in Scotland, at any level, although a competent level of chef skills will be expected for the final skills test, so experience in a professional kitchen is required. Candidates must complete the application form and return it by the closing date of midnight on Monday 30 November, 2020. Due to the unusual circumstances of this year, people can still apply if they are on furlough or have been made redundant due to Covid-19.