Tag: HIT Scotland

HIT Scotland industry scholarships give a boost to hospitality talent

The Hospitality Industry Trust (HIT) Scotland, is celebrating the successful completion of 414 scholarships in the last 12 months, as applications open once again for the 2025 programme.

Established in 1994, HIT Scotland’s extensive scholarship programme offers aspiring hospitality professionals in Scotland the opportunity to develop key skills, knowledge and practical experience to advance their careers.

Last year’s intake saw 414 recipients accept scholarships covering a wide range of topics including ‘Patisserie Chef Skills, ‘Spa Success’, ‘Sales’ and ‘The Art of Leadership’. Among the most popular programmes were ‘People Management – Supervisory’ with 76 scholarships offered, ‘Understanding Revenue’ at 56 and ‘People Management – Management’, with a total of 34 scholarships provided.

99% of the 2023 scholars rated the experience as highly positive, demonstrating the high quality of HIT Scotland’s programme. 92% believed the scholarship would enhance their career, while 96% claimed the experience would benefit their business. Such feedback speaks to the professional gains to be made from undertaking one of these scholarships, and the wider benefits for Scotland’s hospitality industry.

One such scholar was Lucy Jeffrey, Group & Events Planning Manager of Edinburgh’s Radisson Blu Hotel. With over 20 years of industry experience, Lucy applied for HIT Scotland’s ‘Art of Leadership’ scholarship to advance her skills and confidence in successfully managing a large team.

The scholarship saw Lucy spend two days in the world-renowned EHL Hospitality Business School in Lausanne, Switzerland.

Here she, alongside 15 other scholarship recipients, participated in an interactive programme, covering topics such as service leadership, communication style, and the difference between managers and leaders.

The scholars gained real-life practice, with multiple opportunities to give and receive feedback, and the task of delivering a presentation to the rest of the group.

Lucy Jeffreys commented on her experience: “The HIT Scotland course was really eye-opening. Spending time with other hospitality managers and learning from some of the best in the industry really broadened my view of different leadership styles and encouraged me to question my own.

“It was a privilege to be accepted onto the HIT Scholarship programme, and a truly incredible experience that has added to my career. If there is anyone else debating whether to apply for one of HIT Scotland’s scholarships, I would 100% recommend doing so!”

David Cochrane, MBE, Chief Executive of HIT Scotland, commented: “HIT Scotland’s scholarships have helped thousands of people establish successful, fulfilling careers in Scotland’s hospitality industry.

“Nowhere is this more evident in the resoundingly positive feedback we receive from scholars each year, who have gained so much professionally and personally from the experience.

“It’s not just the individual who has something to gain. 94% of scholars claim the experience helped them in their current role, highlighting the benefits to employers.

“This is why we are encouraging Scottish hospitality businesses to support their staff in signing up for a scholarship, and of course – if you are working toward a career in the hospitality industry – or know someone who is – we invite you to apply through the website this September!”

Applications for the next round of HIT Scotland scholarships open on 18 September 2024. More details about how to apply can be found here.   

Over 300 Scottish hospitality scholarships awarded by industry charity HIT Scotland

Hospitality Industry Trust (HIT) Scotland has awarded 319 scholarships to those studying or working in the Scottish hospitality industry. 

The scholarships were awarded at the annual HIT Talent Conference, which took place on 8th February at the Voco Grand Central Hotel in Glasgow.  

The recipients, who work across a variety of hospitality and tourism roles in 142 different venues throughout Scotland, celebrated their awards to applause from 430 attendees.  

This year saw HIT announce their 7000th inspirational scholarship. The recipient, Amanda Pirie, People Manager at The Auchrannie Resort on the Isle of Arran, received the prestigious Art of Leadership scholarship. 

HIT Scotland’s scholarship programme is open to anyone working in or studying towards a hospitality career in Scotland. Scholarships offer learning experiences to help develop new skills, knowledge, best practice and fresh thinking. The scholarships are split into three categories – business, operational and inspirational empowerment – with content tailored according to the recipient’s personal development objectives. 

Scholarship Categories 

Business empowerment scholarships include the popular people management programmes, which remains a coveted skill in hospitality roles. Scholarships were offered to first time supervisors receiving their first training in managing a team, to senior managers for the Art of Leadership Scholarship at Lausanne Hospitality Business School in Switzerland, and to one General Manager who will attend the Cornell General Manager Programme in the U.S. 

Operational scholarshipscover a diverse range of learning opportunities. This year there will be chefs taking part in new kitchen-based experiences, restaurant and bar staff learning how to run a whisky tasting, sales training, and employees learning how hotel revenue management affects their role. 

The bespoke inspirational scholarships allow individuals to tell HIT Scotland what will inspire and motivate them to be the best they can be. This year, HIT have announced two special inspirational scholarships. One scholar will receive a French wine experience, exploring the art of fine wine making in a well-established vineyard in France.

Another will educate a scholar on brand repositioning with first-hand knowledge from a roster of well-known brands, looking at global branding from another sector.  All bespoke scholars will bring their learnings back home to benefit Scottish hospitality.   

The Open University Scotland also offered places on their Microcredentials courses, covering a variety of learning options from Project Management to Python Programming. 

The Graeme Gibson Award  

Last year a special new award was introduced in honour of inspirational General Manager the late Graeme Gibson, who worked in many of Scotland’s top establishments, latterly The Grand Central Hotel, Glynhill Hotel, and Yotel Glasgow.  

The Graeme Gibson Scholarship rewards a rising star working in management in the Greater Glasgow area with executive coaching sessions to help them work on their personal and career development. This year’s winner is Katie Booth, F&B Manager at the AC Hotel by Marriott Glasgow. 

Chris Rouse Scholarship 

The Chris Rouse Scholarship is HIT Scotland’s other notable award. In memory of the former General Manager of the Turnberry Hotel, Chris Rouse. Chris was responsible for transforming the hotel into a world leading luxury spa and golf resort, and this award goes to managers who likewise uphold the highest standards for guests and inspire the best from their team.  

This year’s Chris Rouse Scholar is Jack McCormick, Bar Supervisor at Trump Turnberry, who will benefit from executive coaching sessions in addition to his chosen scholarship. 

Lisa Wishart Scholarship 

This year a new scholarship opportunity was announced in memory of Lisa Wishart, MD of the Lisini Pub Company, who sadly passed away in 2023. Lisa was an inspirational leader who ran a thriving hospitality company, and was a great ambassador for the trade. 

There have been two Lisa Wishart Scholars named this year due to the fantastic fundraising received from the Scottish Bar and Pub Awards.  

Stephanie Jayne-Robertson, Supervisor at Lisini Pub Co (The Parkville Hotel, Blantyre), will carry out a Customer Experience scholarship, visiting London to learn about service experience and recovery at the Dorchester Collection Academy. 

Meanwhile, Jenny Barlow, General Manager at Scotts Bar and Restaurant in Greenock, will study the Art of Leadership course at the esteemed Lausanne Hospitality Business School in Switzerland. 

David Cochrane, HIT Scotland Chief Executive, said: “It is inspiring to have so many of our HIT Scotland scholars in one place to celebrate their achievement this year. These learning experiences are absolutely vital for our sector, allowing fresh ideas to permeate throughout the industry and upskilling the Scottish hospitality workforce.  

“Tailored to each scholar’s individual aspirations, HIT Scotland scholarships are incredibly rewarding and empower people to take charge of their career development, all while benefitting the sector at large. 

“Myself and everyone at HIT Scotland would like to wish all of our scholars the very best for the year ahead, and can’t wait to follow their progress!” 

Katie Booth, Graeme Gibson Scholar for 2024, added: “I am so honoured to be the recipient of the Graeme Gibson Scholarship and would like to thank HIT for giving me this opportunity. I hope that as I continue my career in hospitality that I can embody all the amazing attributes that Graeme possessed in all areas of his life and hotel career.  

“I am so excited to be given the time to work with an executive coach to develop my personal management skills and can’t wait to bring back all that I learn to my incredible team here at the AC Hotel.” 

HIT Scotland would like to thank the Savoy Educational Trust, The Crerar Trust, The MacRobert Trust, and Diageo Learning for Life, along with their corporate sponsors, for their support of the 2024 scholarship programme. 

To find out more about the scholarships HIT Scotland offer, visit the website:

hitscotland.co.uk/scholarships-hit 

HIT Scotland invites Scottish hospitality talent to unlock potential through scholarships programme

Leading industry charity, Hospitality Industry Trust (HIT) Scotland is encouraging applications from Scottish hospitality workers and students for its 2024 scholarship programme.  

2024 will see the charity celebrate its 30th anniversary and award its 7000th scholarship – it awards over 200 scholarships annually. A HIT Scotland scholarship is a learning experience designed to provide new skills and knowledge, stimulate best practice and fresh ways of thinking. Scholarships vary year to year depending on what the industry is looking for – this year, it will offer a mix of scholarships across three categories: business, operational and inspirational. 

To celebrate the 30th anniversary milestone, the charity is presenting three new bespoke inspirational scholarships – these will expand on their usual inspirational scholarships, offering a bigger and more prestigious experience for the recipients. 

This year also sees HIT Scotland honouring the memory of great service to the industry with the new Lisa Wishart scholarship. Presented to someone in the licensed trade, this development opportunity has been kindly funded by donations from the recent Scottish Bar & Pub Awards, and will be awarded to someone who shows the same passion for the industry as Lisa did. 

HIT Scotland is also spearheading the inaugural Müller Milk & Ingredients scholarships, which are recognising the huge talent within the Scottish council catering services. 

Applications close midnight on Sunday 19th November 2023, with applicants invited to choose one scholarship that will help aid their personal development within their hospitality role. Anyone working in or studying towards a career in Scottish hospitality can apply. 

David Cochrane, HIT Scotland Chief Executive, commented: “We want applicants to really show us their passion for our industry and demonstrate how the experience will help them. For many years now, our scholarships have been empowering inspirational development in Scottish hospitality, helping both individuals and the sector at large grow.  

“I’d like to thank our sponsors for their continued support of the fundraising events that allow us to keep providing these development opportunities for the industry. Thanks also go to The Savoy Educational Trust, The Crerar Trust, The MacRobert Trust, Diageo Learning for Life, and Hickory for their generous support of our scholarship programme.” 

Angela Vickers, chair of HIT Scotland and CEO of Apex Hotels, added: “It is exciting to be offering three inspirational scholarships to celebrate HIT Scotland’s 30th year – these will offer a one-of-a-kind learning opportunity for the recipients. 

“We cannot wait to hear from the ambitious, passionate individuals working and learning in Scottish hospitality and help them achieve their goals.” 

To find out more about the scholarships HIT Scotland offer and apply, visit the website: hitscotland.co.uk/scholarships-hit 

Aspiring chefs invited to apply to 2023 Andrew Fairlie Scholarship

Eddie Brown winner of the 2022 Andrew Fairlie scholarship. Picture Robert Perry 17th November 2022

Hospitality Industry Trust (HIT) Scotland has announced that the Andrew Fairlie Scholarship is once again open for applications from aspiring chefs working in Scotland.  

An invaluable opportunity for chefs looking to gain first-hand experience within some of the world’s most renowned establishments, the Andrew Fairlie Scholarship provides the ultimate education for up-and-coming chefs. 

Launched in 2019 with the late Andrew Fairlie fronting the initiative, the scholarship is provided in partnership with HIT Scotland, an industry charity Andrew was closely associated with. Now in its fourth year, the Andrew Fairlie Scholarship is supported by HIT Scotland, Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, Perth College UHI and The Gleneagles Hotel. 

Eddie Brown was awarded the scholarship last year, earning him industry-wide recognition as an Andrew Fairlie scholar and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to build on his culinary education.  

An all-star panel of the country’s finest chefs will judge the 2023 competition. 

Stephen McLaughlin, Head Chef at Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, will be joined by fellow 2 Michelin starred Chef Sat Bains, 1 star Head Chef at Cail Bruich and winner of Great British Menu, Lorna McNee, and Masterchef winner and National Chef of Scotland, Gary Maclean.  

The winner of this year’s Scholarship will be taken on a 2-day educational trip to France with Grand Cuisine, and gain hands-on experience at the 2-star Restaurant Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles, the 3-star Core by Clare Smyth in London, and the 2-star Mélisse in Los Angeles, as well as a bespoke chef’s jacket.

These highly informative experiences will be taken over two years, allowing the scholar to develop their learnings over a period of time. 

Eddie Brown winner of the 2022 Andrew Fairlie scholarship. Picture Robert Perry 17th November 2022

Head Chef at Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, Stephen McLaughlin, commented: “The search for the 2023 Andrew Fairlie scholar has now started! I am very much looking forward to seeing what Scotland’s aspiring chefs will create and serve up to us this year.   

“The judges will be looking to see a clear demonstration of the applicants’ skills and knowledge but also want to see and feel their creativity, flair, and personality.   

“At the end of the day, we are not necessarily looking for a Michelin starred chef. What we are searching for is someone with a sharp eye for details and really clean set of skills. Someone who is driven to learn and improve their craft and to elevate themselves and others toward a higher level.” 

Eddie Brown winner of the 2022 Andrew Fairlie scholarship. Picture Robert Perry 17th November 2022

David Cochrane MBE, Chief Executive of HIT Scotland, added: “We are delighted to once again open up applications for the Andrew Fairlie Scholarship.

“The scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for chefs that are looking to advance their career and to continue their professional development in this remarkable industry.” 

To apply, potential candidates should complete an application which can be found on the HIT Scotland website. They will be asked what inspires them to be the best chef they can be, and about their proudest career moment to date. They will also have to design a dish to create on finals day. 

This year candidates will need to display their innovation and expertise by creating a potato dish which will be cooked and served to the judges at the final, along with some other culinary challenges which will be revealed on the day!  

The finalists will take part in the final skills test on Wednesday 22nd November at Perth College UHI, followed by a presentation at The Gleneagles Hotel. 

The test will focus on the candidates’ skills, knowledge, and creativity, with the recipient of the scholarship striking a fine balance between personality and professionalism throughout. 

Applications are open now and close midnight 24 September 2023. 

Eligible candidates can find out more information about the application process on the HIT Scotland website here. 

Over 400 hospitality scholarships awarded by HIT Scotland to support industry talent  

Empowering the development of the Scottish hospitality sector, Hospitality Industry Trust (HIT) Scotland has this week awarded 414 scholarships to those studying or working in the industry. 

The scholarships were awarded at the annual HIT Talent Conference, which took place in Glasgow in Thursday at the Voco Grand Central Hotel. Recipients range from those just starting out to senior managers, all working or studying in the Scottish hospitality sector. 

HIT’s scholarship programme is open to anyone in Scotland working in the industry or studying towards a career in hospitality. Scholarships offer learning experiences to help develop new skills, knowledge, best practice and fresh thinking. They focus on business, operational and inspirational empowerment and are tailored to an individual’s aspirations. 

The hospitality charity also announced the first recipient of a special new award introduced in honour inspirational General Manager, the late Graeme Gibson, who worked in many of Scotland’s top establishments, latterly The Grand Central Hotel, Glynhill Hotel, and then Yotel Glasgow.  

The Graeme Gibson Scholarship rewards a rising star working in management in the Greater Glasgow area with four executive coaching sessions to work on their personal and career development, in addition to their scholarship award. This year’s winner is Graeme Walker, Director of Sales and Marketing at the Clayton Hotel Glasgow City. 

The Chris Rouse Scholarship is HIT Scotland’s other special award. Awarded in memory of the former GM of the Turnberry Hotel who was known for developing the highest standards for his guests and inspiring the best from his team, Chris was responsible for the transformation of the hotel into a world-leading luxury spa and golf resort.

The Chris Rouse Scholarship is awarded to someone working in the Ayrshire area, who shows the same enthusiasm for their career. This year’s Chris Rouse Scholar is Natalaigh Taylor, Marketing Manager at Trump Turnberry, who will likewise benefit from executive coaching sessions. 

Seven new scholarships were also announced to reflect the changing needs of the sector: Cornell General Managers Programme; eCornell modules; Resilience; Whisky Appreciation Masterclass; Mental Fitness; Sustainability; and Technology.

David Cochrane, HIT Scotland Chief Executive, added: “HIT Is delighted to announce 414 deserving beneficiaries of scholarships this year. These awards are important for ensuring hospitality talent is nurtured to help people forge successful careers and contribute to this vital Scottish industry. 

“We are pleased to announce special awards made in honour of two industry legends. The first Graeme Gibson Scholar is Graeme Walker, Director of Sales and Marketing at the Clayton Hotel Glasgow City, and this year’s Chris Rouse Scholar is Natalaigh Taylor, Marketing Manager at Trump Turnberry. The executive coaching they will receive in addition to their scholarship will help them grow and progress. 

“We look forward to following all our scholars progress in future months and years.” 

Graeme Gibson Scholarship winner for 2023, Graeme Walker, commented: “I have long admired the work of HIT Scotland, so being selected as the inaugural Graeme Gibson scholarship recipient is truly an honour. 

“Graeme is up at the top of the list of brilliant people I have had the good fortune to work with during my career in hospitality. We worked together in the year leading up to his passing, opening a new hotel during a pandemic, which was an interesting challenge. He has helped to inspire not only me but countless others in Scottish hospitality. His passion for our industry and the members of his teams, along with his great sense of humour, are just parts of what made him a fantastic leader and someone who we can all strive to emulate.” 

HIT Scotland would like to thank the Savoy Educational Trust, The Crerar Trust and The MacRobert Trust, along with their corporate sponsors, for their support of the 2023 scholarship programme. 

To find out more about the scholarships HIT Scotland offer, visit the website: hitscotland.co.uk/scholarships-hit 

Andrew Fairlie Scholarship seeks aspiring chefs in Scotland

Hospitality Industry Trust (HIT) Scotland has announced that the Andrew Fairlie Scholarship is again seeking applications from aspiring chefs working in Scotland. Eligible applicants can find out more information by visiting https://hitscotland.co.uk/scholarships

Positioned as the ultimate scholarship that any aspiring chef in Scotland could receive, the Andrew Fairlie Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for any chef looking to grow their knowledge and gain experience within renowned establishments.

Sponsored by HIT Scotland and The Gleneagles Hotel, and supported by Restaurant Andrew Fairlie and Perth College UHI, the Andrew Fairlie Scholarship is now in its 3rd year.  The scholarship launched in 2019, with the late Andrew Fairlie spearheading the initiative in partnership with HIT Scotland – an industry charity he was closely associated with.

The recipient will gain industry-wide recognition as an Andrew Fairlie Scholar and experience once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to continue their culinary education, such as a practical stage at 2 Michelin star Restaurant Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles, and 3-star restaurant Core by Clare Smyth in London.

Last year, two scholarships were awarded to Josh Wilkinson and Amy Stephenson.

The judges include some of the country’s finest chefs, who all knew Andrew Fairlie well.  Joining Stephen McLaughlin, Head Chef at Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, is fellow 2 Michelin starred chef Tom Kerridge, Masterchef winner and National Chef of Scotland, Gary McLean, Lorna McNee, 1 star Head Chef at Cail Bruich, and Andrew’s former mentor Keith Podmore.

Stephen McLaughlin, Head Chef at Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, said: “I’m delighted that we are starting the search for another Andrew Fairlie scholar, and I’m looking forward to seeing what Scotland’s future stars have to offer this year.

“I’m excited to see what the applicants design as their dish to be cooked if they make the Final skills test.  We’ve put some conditions on what that should include, but we want the chefs to use their knowledge and creativity to come up with something to showcase their personality, and impress us.

“The Andrew Fairlie Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for chefs that want to push themselves to be the best they can be, to learn from and be inspired by other talented chefs, and to continue their personal development in this industry that we love.”

To apply, potential candidates will complete an online application exploring their thoughts on why they’d like to win this scholarship, their hopes for their future career as a chef, and who in the industry has recently inspired them. 

They will have to show their knowledge and creativity by creating a dish to be cooked and served on Finals Day in November, using their choice of wild furred Scottish game in season, with 2 garnishes (1 must include fruit), accompanied by a poivrade sauce.  From this, up to 6 chefs will be chosen to take part in the Grand Final in November.

The finalists will take part in a skills test at Perth College UHI which will focus on their skills, knowledge, and creativity, with the winner showing the right mix of personality and professionalism to be named an Andrew Fairlie Scholar.

Eligible applicants can find out more information by visiting:

https://hitscotland.co.uk/scholarships

College hospitality students sample Swiss service

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Two hospitality students from Edinburgh College travelled to a prestigious hospitality school in Switzerland thanks to a scholarship. 

Rebecca Sinder and Merce Just are both first year students on the HN Hospitality Management course, and were the first students from Edinburgh College to win a Hospitality Industry Trust Scotland (HIT Scotland) scholarship.

The HIT Scotland scholarship paid for them both to travel to the prestigious École hôtelière de Lausanne (EHL) for a two day programme titled ‘A Practical Approach to Customer Service’. Founded in 1893, EHL was the world’s first trade-school to focus on hospitality education. The school offers bachelor and master degrees in hospitality management and administration.

While on the scholarship Merce and Rebecca took a trip to the five star Grand Hotel au Lac and dined in the hospitality school’s gastronomic restaurant. Rebecca said: “This scholarship has opened my eyes and mind to the hospitality industry and what Scotland is missing in terms of customer experience, and also to customer service skills that everyone working in hospitality should be taught.”

Rebecca Sinder said: “This was a great trip and an opportunity to learn in depth about customer service skills. Not only did we learn about multicultural habits, current technology trends, how to dress to impress and also the crucial non-verbal and verbal communications skills, we were also shown what real hospitality feels like to experience. The professors and students of École hôtelière de Lausanne were an example of the most professional workers in the industry. They were welcoming and they showed us great customer service first hand.”

Richard Morris, Edinburgh College Food and Hospitality lecturer said:  “Merce and Rebecca have returned to College inspired and motivated to continue with their studies whilst at the same time getting valuable Industry experience.

Rebecca has since joined me working for the Scottish Rugby Union Hospitality at the 6 Nations, whilst Merce is interested in joining the world famous Witchery restaurant following a recent visit. Ultimately what this scholarship has given them is the confidence to progress in their chosen industry realising what the ultimate rewards can be.”

HIT Scotland is a charity whose mission is to assist people to achieve their potential within hospitality. HIT Scotland enables young people in the hospitality industry to be inspired about what the industry has to offer and all the opportunities that exist in a multitude of sectors. It also sets steps to making dreams come true all over the world in many incredible organisations such as Virgin, Hilton and Mossimans.

Edinburgh College students worked at the Annual HIT Scotland Lunch at The Sheraton that Richard Morris has been coordinating with the College for the last few years. From this they gained an insight into what the organisation were all about.

There are many examples of young people who have gone on to achieve their career aspirations through HIT Scotland many of who were represented at HIT Scotland’s recent Emerging Talent Conference in Edinburgh.

Applications are currently open for hospitality and professional cookery courses starting at Edinburgh College in August.  More details can be found at:

http://www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk/courses/food_hospitality_and_tourism.aspx