Applications have opened for the second year of the Scotland Food & Drink and HIT Scotland Legacy Scholarship, offering a five-day stage at The Dorchester in London for a chef based in Scotland.
The scholarship launched in 2025 to mark the MICHELIN Guide Ceremony for Great Britain and Ireland taking place in Scotland for the first time. Inaugural winner Fraser Cameron, Head Chef at The Globe Inn, completed a stage at The Ritz London under executive chef John Williams MBE. This year’s placement moves to The Dorchester, where the winner will work under culinary director Martyn Nail.
Applicants must have at least five years of full-time professional kitchen experience and be based in Scotland. Judges will look for evidence of commitment to Scottish produce and a clear intention to act as an ambassador for Scottish food and drink after completing the stage. The top three candidates will be invited for interview before a winner is announced in the summer. Applications close at midnight on 17th May 2026.
Fiona Richmond, Head of Regional Food at Scotland Food & Drink, said, “The Legacy Scholarship is an important part of helping the next generation of up-and-coming chefs develop skills and progress their career, and we are excited to hear from applicants who have an enthusiasm for working with Scotland’s finest ingredients, from seafood and dairy to whisky and beef.”
David Cochrane, Chief Executive of HIT Scotland, said, “As with all learning opportunities, it is vital that you continue to further develop your culinary skills and push the boundaries, so you can reach your potential. The Legacy Scholarship achieves all this, and I would recommend this opportunity to all chefs across the sector.”
Last year’s winner Fraser Cameron said, “I see winning the first Legacy Scholarship as a long-term project. Following my five days at The Ritz London, I have already implemented so many methods, processes and techniques in my kitchen, and there’s lots more I still want to apply and work towards. If you are serious about learning and growing, and you are prepared to work hard and earn it, grab this opportunity with both hands.”
