The finalists in Knorr Professional’s Scottish Student of the Year Competition 2025 have been announced. The five chefs from Scotland’s top catering colleges will now compete in the live final on Wednesday 26th March at the prestigious City of Glasgow College.
The 26-40 year olds will be turning up the heat in the kitchen to wow the judges and land the coveted prize of an all-expenses-paid educational food trip to Italy.
Glasgow-born chef Gary Maclean, competition ambassador and judge, says: “The strength and creativity of this year’s entries have been truly impressive and a significant marker of the calibre of talent Scottish catering colleges are nurturing. And now the challenge is mounting, as the five shortlisted students fire up the stoves to bring their dishes to life at the live final.”
Gary will join head judge James Brown, Executive Chef at Unilever Food Solutions, and Bidfood Scotland’s Food Development Chef, Martin Ross.
The finalists in Knorr Professional’s Scottish Student Chef of the Year 2025 are:
- Nahui Keiss, 38 – Forth Valley
- Ross Gourlay, 20 – City of Glasgow
- Graham Watson, 35 – Ayrshire
- Louise Smith, 40 – Ayrshire
- Lewis MacLeod, 26 – UHI, Argyll
The students will compete in teams of two—each consisting of a Head Chef and an Assistant – to complete a skills test and deliver a two-course meal, based on this year’s competition theme of wellbeing. The judges will be looking for menus that highlight the powerful connection between nutrition and health, showcasing the use of high-quality, locally sourced, and seasonal ingredients. A commitment to reducing food waste is also integral, encouraging the creative use of by-products and ensuring that every ingredient is maximised. The main course must use Knorr Professional Bouillon as a key ingredient to enhance the depth of flavour.
Knorr Professional’s Scottish Student Chef of the Year competition is now in its second year and aims to discover and celebrate the next generation of young Scottish chefs. With a focus on nurturing creativity and innovation, the competition seeks to inspire and support students in reaching their full potential, whilst highlighting the vibrant future of Scotland’s culinary industry. The competition also provides a platform for students to develop their skills and promote professional growth, ensuring they are fully equipped to succeed in the fast-paced, competitive culinary world.
