About the Scholarship

The Specialised Chefs' Scholarship offers the chance for young people aged 16-19 to become fully-qualified chefs. Open to students from anywhere in the UK, the course is arranged by the Academy of Culinary Arts and Waitrose, and managed by The Bournemouth & Poole College.

Practical training for this unique three-year apprenticeship is provided by The Ritz, The Dorchester, Claridge's, the House of Commons and The Royal Automobile Club in London, plus Chewton Glen Hotel in Hampshire, and Wiltshire's Lucknam Park, to name but a few.

Qualifications

The course leads to City and Guilds National Vocational Qualifications to Level 3. In addition, after a six-hour practical examination, the Academy of Culinary Arts awards successful chefs with a Diploma in Professional Cookery. This is presented at a Graduation Ceremony which takes place in London each year.

Since 1989 more than 160 apprentices have graduated and are now working in positions of responsibility all over the world.

The Course

The scholarship is part of College Apprenticeships Training that takes a practical approach to gaining skills and qualifications. It is divided into two sections: work-based training with a chef member of the Academy of Culinary Arts at prestigious hotels and restaurants for two 12-month periods; and three 12-week periods of full-time block release tuition at The Bournemouth & Poole College.

Monitoring, advice and guidance from college co-ordinators is carried-out every 10-12 weeks at work and college.

Apprentices will also gain farming experience on visits to Leckford, the Waitrose Farm in Hampshire. At the Waitrose head office in Bracknell, Berkshire, they will learn from buyers and food technologists about the production and sourcing of foods - including both locally produced and organic produce.

Allowances and tuition costs

The course is low-cost. All tuition, accommodation with families while in Bournemouth, and travelling costs to college are paid for. There is also a weekly allowance sponsored by a chef member / employer of the Academy of Culinary Arts. If working in London, a full wage is paid and accommodation provided in a first-class hostel in Hampstead (to be paid for). The country house hotels and some of the London hotels and restaurants also provide apprentices with accommodation. Additional costs include extra uniform and text books.

Eligibility

You must be under 19 years of age, have or expect to have GCSE English and Maths at Grade D or above, plus four additional GCSEs at Grade D or above.

You must be willing to train and live in London hotels or restaurants, country house hotels, as well as studying and living in Bournemouth, as required.

All applicants must take part in interviews and assessments at The Bournemouth & Poole College.