Applications Open for “Once in a Lifetime” Learning Opportunity for Chefs, as Scotland Food & Drink and HIT Scotland Legacy Scholarship Returns

Applications for the Scotland Food & Drink and HIT Scotland Legacy Scholarship have opened for another year, offering talented chefs a rare opportunity to hone their skills in one of the UK’s most prestigious kitchens. 

Launched in partnership between Scotland Food & Drink and HIT Scotland, the innovative scholarship was launched in 2025 to celebrate the MICHELIN Guide Ceremony for Great Britain & Ireland taking place in Scotland for the first time, and saw inaugural winner Fraser Cameron, Head Chef at The Globe Inn, undertake a unique five-day stage at The Ritz London, led by Executive Chef John Williams MBE. 

Now, the Legacy Scholarship has returned, offering ambitious and enthusiastic chefs the chance to learn in one of the world’s leading hospitality settings – the five-star The Dorchester in London. 

The food at The Dorchester is a masterclass in refined luxury and glamorous comfort, bringing modern British sophistication together with relaxed, creative, and produce-driven menus. The setting also celebrates London’s current culinary energy, while keeping the five-star standards the hotel is known for. 

Applications are open to chefs in Scotland with at least five years’ full-time experience in a professional kitchen, with entries closing at midnight on Sunday, 17 May 2026.  

As well as a desire to progress within the industry, a panel of expert judges will seek clear examples of how applicants have shown commitment to sourcing and promoting quality Scottish food and drink, and how they would become an ambassador for Scotland’s exceptional ingredients on completion of the stage at The Dorchester, which will involve working under Culinary Director Martyn Nail.  

After a rigorous judging process, which will see the top three candidates invited for interview, the Legacy Scholarship Award winner will be announced in the summer.  

Fiona Richmond, Head of Regional Food at Scotland Food & Drink, said: “Scotland’s culinary scene is one of the best in the world, and our food and drink sector is now valued at an incredible £19 billion.  

“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. I would encourage anyone looking to take the next step in their career journey to apply.”  

David Cochrane, Chief Executive of HIT Scotland, said: “After the success of the inaugural Legacy Scholarship, we are anticipating a high demand with the next round of applications. 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, and also have a great support network to guide you.  

“The Legacy Scholarship achieves all this, and I would recommend this opportunity to all Chefs across the sector. 

Martyn Nail, Culinary Director at The Dorchester, London, said: "A great chef is continually learning, so I am delighted to invite this year's Legacy Scholar to The Dorchester to join our team for a week to see how our restaurants operate, and hopefully pick up some useful ideas to take back their own kitchen.” 

Last year’s winner, Fraser Cameron, added: “My time at The Ritz London was incredible. The passion and hunger within the team is second to none – it was such a privilege and an honour to learn in an environment where nothing less than the best is accepted. 

“Working across every section of the kitchen gave me an invaluable insight into the precision, skill and teamwork behind such an exceptional operation.  

“I see winning the first Legacy Scholarship as a long-term project, as, 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. It’s the gift that keeps on giving because I now have new targets and goals I have set myself, and the business, to achieve. 

“The Legacy Scholarship truly is a once in a lifetime, money can't buy experience to learn in one of the best kitchens in the world. If you are serious about learning and growing, and you are prepared to work hard and earn it, grab this opportunity with both hands.” 

For more information about the Scotland Food & Drink and HIT Scotland Legacy Scholarship and how to apply, visit: https://hitscotland.co.uk/legacy-scholarship-2026