Scotland’s aspiring chefs are being given the chance to fast‑track their careers as applications open for the 2026 Andrew Fairlie Scholarship, one of the country’s most respected culinary development programmes.
Delivered by Hospitality Industry Trust (HIT) Scotland, the scholarship celebrates the legacy of the late Andrew Fairlie, Scotland’s only two Michelin‑starred chef, by offering an exceptional programme of learning, mentorship and professional development for emerging culinary talent.
Established in 2019 by Andrew Fairlie in partnership with HIT Scotland, the scholarship was created to give ambitious chefs access to the kind of world‑class experiences that shaped his own career. Today, it continues to reflect his passion for nurturing future generations of Scottish chefs through unrivalled educational opportunities and exposure to some of the most acclaimed kitchens in the UK and beyond.
Now entering its seventh year, the Andrew Fairlie Scholarship is supported by HIT Scotland, Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, UHI Perth and The Gleneagles Hotel. Widely regarded as one of the ultimate educational scholarships available to chefs working in Scotland, it has helped past winners broaden their technical knowledge, build confidence and progress into senior roles in the industry.
Learning from leading chefs
The 2026 scholarship will once again be judged by an outstanding panel of leading chefs. Stephen McLaughlin, Head Chef at Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, returns as lead judge and will be joined by Sat Bains, Chef Patron of Restaurant Sat Bains, and Gary Maclean, Scotland’s National Chef and winner of MasterChef: The Professionals.
The successful applicant will embark on a series of exclusive educational experiences delivered over two years. These include a two‑day culinary study trip to France with Grande Cuisine, a stage at the three Michelin‑starred Core by Clare Smyth in London, and hands‑on experience in the kitchens of the two Michelin‑starred Restaurant Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles and Restaurant Sat Bains in Nottingham. The winner will also receive a bespoke chef’s jacket from Goodfellows to commemorate their achievement.
Designed to broaden technical skills, inspire creativity and provide invaluable insight into the workings of world‑class restaurants, the scholarship equips Scotland’s next generation of chefs with the tools they need to progress their careers, from refined craft skills to professional confidence and industry‑wide connections.
A life‑changing opportunity
Michael Sutherland, the winner of the 2025 Andrew Fairlie Scholarship, described the experience as transformative: “Winning the Andrew Fairlie Scholarship is an incredible honour and a truly unique opportunity. The chance to learn from some of the industry’s most respected chefs, build lasting connections and gain experience in world‑class kitchens is something very few people get to experience.
“Every element of the scholarship is exceptional, and being able to benefit from so many opportunities through one programme makes it one of the most valuable experiences available to chefs in Scotland.”
Reflecting on what the judges are looking for in 2026, Head Judge Stephen McLaughlin explained:
“For this year’s Andrew Fairlie Scholarship we are looking for a couple of full‑flavoured winter warmers – cabbages and lentils with super seasonal Scottish game, and a dessert of buttery brioche and apples.
“The flavours must be strong and clear and the skill, craft and passion must be equally visible too. Applicants must be concise and smart in their recipes, and as always, focus on delivering delicious food. Food that chefs would love to eat themselves.”
David Cochrane MBE, Chief Executive of HIT Scotland, added: “We are at an exciting time of year when we launch the search for the next Andrew Fairlie Scholar. Chef Andrew displayed all the best positive attributes in his eponymous kitchen and his innovation and passion for quality was a cornerstone of everything he did.
“This scholarship in his name will give a chef a chance to experience multiple learning opportunities that will inspire and motivate for the rest of their career.”
How to apply
Applications for the 2026 Andrew Fairlie Scholarship are now open and close on 13 September 2026. Candidates must complete an online application form, available via the HIT Scotland website here.
The judging process comprises two stages: an initial paper assessment followed by the Grand Final skills test. In the first round, applicants are asked to demonstrate their creativity, technical expertise and attention to detail by designing a seasonal two‑course menu for four people in November.
The savoury course must be a classic Chou Farci using Scottish game as the main ingredient. The dish should feature a braised lentil garnish, flavoured with smoked bacon and vinegar, accompanied by a sauce or jus that complements the cabbage and lentils.
For the dessert course, candidates are tasked with creating a dish that primarily showcases homemade brioche and apples, enhanced with vanilla pods and a choice of one alcohol to flavour the dessert. Both dishes should be balanced, technically accomplished and full of flavour, while clearly expressing the chef’s personality and passion.
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Up to six chefs will be selected to progress to Finals Day, where they will face a series of culinary challenges designed to test their technical skills, knowledge and craftsmanship. The Grand Final will take place on Wednesday 25 November 2026 at UHI Perth, with the winner announced later that day at The Gleneagles Hotel.
Throughout the process, judges will be looking for a chef who can consistently strike a balance between flavour, passion and professionalism – qualities that reflect Andrew Fairlie’s own values in the kitchen.hitscotland.co+1
Chefs working in Scotland who are ready to take the next step in their careers and challenge themselves in front of some of the industry’s most respected figures are encouraged to find out more and apply via HIT Scotland’s website.
