Entier head chef Andrew Clark, The Balmoral breakfast chef de partie Allan MacDonald, Fingal chef de parties Marcin Borek and Patryk Kasperek, and Gleneagles senior chef de partie Michael Sutherland are set to compete for the 2024 Andrew Fairlie Scholarship.
The final skills test will take place on November 27, 2024, at Perth College UHI, where the five finalists will create an autumnal sharing dish for four, featuring a short saddle of Scotch lamb, spinach garnish, creamed polenta, and sauce.
Now in its fifth year, the Andrew Fairlie Scholarship is recognized as “the ultimate scholarship for aspiring chefs in Scotland.” It was established by HIT Scotland following Fairlie’s passing in 2019.
“The remarkable legacy of Andrew Fairlie continues with the fifth annual Scholarship,” said David Cochrane, chief executive of HIT Scotland. “This is a remarkable opportunity for emerging Scottish culinary talent and a gateway to unparalleled industry experiences that will enhance their personal and professional growth.”
The judging panel will be led by Stephen McLaughlin, head chef at the two Michelin-starred Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, alongside chefs Tom Kerridge, Sat Bains, and Gary Maclean.
The winner will embark on a two-day educational trip to France with Grande Cuisine and gain hands-on experience at the two Michelin-starred Restaurant Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles. Additionally, the scholar will stage at the three Michelin-starred Core by Clare Smyth in London and receive a bespoke chef’s jacket.
“We were thrilled by the number of applications this year from across Scotland, which made selecting the final five quite challenging,” Cochrane added. “The finalists must be ready to impress our judges for a chance at the prizes.”
Last year’s scholarship was awarded to joint winners Darren Seggie and Rachel Bremner.
