Applications for the UK’s most prestigious front-of-house competition are open for 2026, granting young hospitality professionals the chance to achieve industry stardom.
The Gold Service Scholarship was founded in 2012 as a means by which to nurture the next generation of sommeliers, maître d's and managers, providing mentorship programmes and development through training, job placements and travel.
Each year, the competition invites hospitality professionals to undertake various tasks, both written and practical, before judges choose a band of finalists. Here, they must plan, prepare, and serve a three-course lunch, including canapés, champagne and wines at one of London’s most coveted hotels.
Judges include Lydia Forte from Rocco Forte Hotels, and Thomas Kochs, the managing director of Claridge’s.
Winners – scholars henceforth – will be sent on an educational trip to a hospitality school in Switzerland, one of the world’s best, and offered various opportunities across a network of restaurants, bars and hotels, including Mandarin Oriental Bangkok and the three-Michelin-starred Waterside Inn in Bray, Berkshire. They are also given the chance to work a state visit at Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle.
This year's scholarship launch took place at the Corinthia Hotel, with those in attendance including John Williams MBE of the Ritz, and Rob Rose, restaurant director at Core. Last year’s winner Isabella Condon, from Dinner by Heston, gave a talk following two panel discussions, including one between Thomas Kochs, luxury travel expert Jules Perowne and the Standard’s restaurant critic David Ellis.
Ellis said: “Good service is crucial to any meal — it tends to end up swaying a diner’s opinion of the food.
“The Gold Service Scholarship is a way for those serious about hospitality to learn the fundamentals in a way that will serve them throughout their career, from the very beginning onwards. I would encourage anyone keen to make a career in the industry to apply.”
Edward Griffiths, trustee and chair of judges, added: “This scholarship is more than a competition – it is an investment in the future leaders of our industry, providing them with the skills, confidence, and opportunities to thrive in their careers.
“We know that the hospitality sector is built on people, passion, and professionalism, and the Gold Service Scholarship continues to play a vital role in nurturing that next generation. I encourage anyone with the drive to learn, grow, and represent the very best of service to step forward and apply.”
The closing date for applications is Friday October 3 and to be eligible, entrants must be aged between 22 and 30 on this date. For more information visit thegoldservicescholarship.co.uk
